tourist destination kyoto

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kyoto

Written by Meagan Drillinger and Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 26, 2023

Surrounded by the hills of central Honshu, Kyoto is one of Japan's largest cities. Although one of Japan's great tourist destinations , it is famous for having preserved much of the atmosphere of the past, having been the only major Japanese city to escape the devastation of WWII.

Celebrated as the residence of the Emperor , and Japan's principal cultural center for almost 1,100 years, Kyoto today boasts numerous things to do and great places to visit, including exploring the fine examples of sculptures, paintings, and other art forms in its many museums and galleries.

Your Kyoto travel itinerary should include seeing non-touristy sites, too. These should include the many examples of its centuries-old architecture, much of it influenced by Buddhism, which can still be seen in the splendid temples located in the quieter, less visited corners of the old city.

Kyoto continues to play an important role in Japanese religion, with 30 of the city's temples still serving as centers of various Buddhist sects, along with some 200 Shinto shrines within the city limits. All told, UNESCO World Heritage Site status has been designated to 17 historic buildings in Kyoto.

Find the best places to visit in the city with our list of the top attractions in Kyoto.

Nijo Castle

Fushimi-inari taisha shrine, kinkaku-ji: the golden pavilion, kiyomizu-dera temple, sanjūsangen-dō temple, kyoto imperial palace, nishi honganji temple, the kyoto national museum and municipal museum of art, gion's geishas and temples, katsura imperial villa, daitoku-ji temple, the byōdō-in temple, arashiyama monkey park, arashiyama bamboo grove, kyoto tower, kyoto samurai and ninja museum, enjoy a traditional kaiseki meal, experience a tea ceremony, map of tourist attractions in kyoto, kyoto, japan - climate chart.

Nijo Castle (Nijō-jō), complete with well-preserved walls, towers, and a moat, was built in 1603 and later served as the seat of government. The complex has several buildings containing many significant works of art, and is famous as the location chosen by the emperor to issue the rescript abolishing the country's once powerful Shogunate.

Highlights include the castle's East Gate (Higashi Otemon, its main entrance), as well as the Inner Gate, or Karamon, notable for its fine carvings and decorated metalwork. Beyond this, the elaborate Mikuruma-yose is another must-see. The castle's fine gardens are also fun to explore.

The site's most important building is Ninomaru Palace . Consisting of five separate buildings linked by corridors, it boasts exquisite interiors decorated with many paintings by Kano Tanyu and his pupils. The principal apartment is the Hall of the Imperial Emissary (Jodan-no-ma), matched in splendor by the adjoining rooms, Ni-no-ma and Tozamurai-no-ma with their paintings of tigers.

Also of interest is the adjacent building with its large Audience Hall surrounded by a gallery and with sliding doors with large paintings of larches on a gold background. The fourth building, the Kuro-Shoin, has animal paintings by Kano Naonobu, while in the Shogun's private apartments are paintings of mountain landscapes.

If traveling as part of a tour, be sure to request a chance to tread the castle's famous "nightingale floors." These squeaking floorboards were specially designed to replicate the chirping of a nightingale.

Address: 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 604-8301

Official site: https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/?lang=en

One of Japan's most famous shrines, the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine is a must-visit when in Kyoto. Founded in AD 711 and dedicated to the goddess of rice-growing, Ukanomitama-no-mikoto, the shrine is still frequented by merchants and tradesmen who pray for prosperity.

The main building dates from 1499 and features a spectacular four-kilometer-long avenue of bright orange "torii," or arches, each dedicated by a business (it takes some two-hours to travel past the 1,000 arches lining the route). Also notable are its many sculptures of foxes, reputed to be messengers of the gods.

A great time to explore the shrine is at night. Not only will you be rewarded with a unique glimpse of this wonderfully illuminated heritage site, you'll be rewarded with few if any crowds.

Fortify yourself with the purchase of traditional Japanese fortune cookies from the shops and stands at the shrine's entrance. And to beat the crowds, visit as early in the day as possible (a 7am or 8am start is well worth it for the chance to avoid other visitors).

Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto

Official site: http://inari.jp/en/

Originally built in the 14th century as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and now a Zen Buddhist temple, the magnificent Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) is one of Kyoto's most picturesque attractions.

Taking its name from the gold leaf adorning the top two of its three floors - a design element believed to alleviate any negativity associated with death - the structure has been rebuilt in its original form a number of times, this most recent incarnation dating from the late 1950s.

Built over a large pond, the site is also famous for its beautiful grounds, as well as its old stone pagoda and the Sekkatei Teahouse with its traditionally served beverages. For a different perspective of this wonderful tourist attraction, plus avoiding the summer crowds, time your visit for either winter or autumn (the latter is spectacular thanks to the fall colors).

Address: 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 603-836

In the east part of Kyoto, the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, an important UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies in a picturesque location on Otowa Mountain overlooking the city. Visitors can enjoy a delightful stroll to the temple along quaint Tea-pot Lane with its small shops and craft stores.

This beautiful temple was founded in AD 790 and dedicated to the 11-headed Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy whose statue can be seen here. The existing buildings were erected after 1633 in the period of the third Tokugawa Shogun, Iemitsu, and stand mainly on a rocky outcrop high above the Otowa Waterfall.

Highlights include the large terrace of the Main Hall, built on 30-meter-tall pillars with five rows of cross-beams and used as a stage for temple dances and ceremonies. The terrace affords spectacular views over the city and the surrounding wooded hills, especially when the leaves change color in fall. Personalized English language guided tours are available.

Address: 294 Kiyomizu 1-chome, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 605-0862

Official site: www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/en/

Sanjūsangen-dō (Rengyoin Temple), or the Temple of the 33 Niches, takes its name from its rather unusual structure: its façade is divided into 33 (sanjusan) niches (gen) to reflect the belief that Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, could take on 33 different personifications.

Originally built in 1164, the present elongated building was constructed in 1266 after a fire destroyed its predecessor. Evidence of its former importance as a place of training in archery can still seen in the many holes in its ancient pillars and timbers made by arrowheads.

The most important of its many works of art is the Kannon with a Thousand Hands, a nearly three-and-a-half-meter-tall statue. Dating from the 13th century, it's famous for the 500 standing figures of Kannon lined up on either side of it. Also of note are the additional sculptures of the 28 "celestial auxiliaries," spirits considered subordinate to Kannon, located behind it.

Address: 657 Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 605-0941

The original Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto-gosho ) , built in AD 794 and replaced several times after being destroyed by fire, remains one of the city's most visited historic sites. Although the present building was constructed in 1855, it still impresses.

Occupying a large (once-walled) enclosure near the heart of the city, highlights include its finely decorated gates and important rooms and buildings. These include the Hall for State Ceremonies (Shishinden), the Emperor's Residence (Seiryo-den), the Courtroom (Ko-gosho), and the Imperial Library.

While the lovely grounds of this Kyoto landmark are open to the public, the palace itself can only be visited as part of a guided tour operated by the Imperial Household Agency. Be sure to plan ahead and check their website for reservations and application forms.

Address: 3 Kyoto-Gyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 602-0881

Official site: https://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/index.html

The chief temple of the original Jodo-shinshu sect, Nishi Honganji Temple is an outstanding example of Buddhist architecture. Highlights include the Hondo, or Main Hall. Rebuilt in 1760, notable features of this fine structure include a number of rooms decorated with paintings on gold backgrounds, and numerous important statues, some dating from the 6th century.

Also of interest is the Founder's Hall (Daishi-do). Here, you'll find the much-revered statue of Shinran, carved in 1244 and later covered with a coat of lacquer mingled with his ashes.

Another notable building is the Daishoin , or Treasury, with various rooms named after the exquisite wall and ceiling paintings with which they're decorated. These include the Sparrow Room (Suzume-no-ma), the Room of the Wild Geese (Gan-no-ma), and the Chrysanthemum Room (Kiku-no-ma) with its fine 17th-century paintings of flowers in gold and white by Kaiho Yusetsu.

Also of interest is the Higashi-Honganji Temple of the Jodo-shinshu sect. Founded in 1602, it's home to a number of examples of fine artwork.

Only a few parts of these temples are open to the public, so be sure to make arrangements through the temple's website in advance of your visit to include other areas not normally accessible.

Address: Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 600-8501

Official site: www.hongwanji.kyoto/en/

In addition to its many fine old temples with their important artworks, Kyoto also boasts a number of impressive collections in its world-class museums and galleries. Perhaps the best known is the National Museum, an art gallery established in 1897 that is widely considered the most important such museum in Japan.

Focusing predominantly on pre-modern Asian art, particularly examples from Japan, the museum has been completely renovated and includes a new wing designed by architect Yoshio Taniguchi . Highlights of a visit include seeing numerous examples of historic art and applied arts, along with regular exhibitions (be prepared for plenty of walking).

Also worth seeing is Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art. Opened in 1928, this fine gallery features important works by Takeuchi Seihō, one of Japan's leading artists of the 20th century.

Address: 527 Chayacho, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 605-0931

Official site: www.kyohaku.go.jp/eng/index.html

Famous as an entertainment and geisha district, Gion is an area of Kyoto that is well suited to explore on foot. Located on the eastern bank of the Kamogawa River, Gion is an eclectic mix of modern architecture and historical beauty that provides a unique taste of numerous Japanese traditions, from the elaborately dressed geishas to well-preserved 17th-century restaurants and teahouses offering a glimpse of old Japan.

Centered on an area encompassing Hanami-Koji Street, Shijo-dori Street, and the waterside promenades of Shirakawa Minami-dori Street, Gion is also famous for its many fine temples. The best-known of these are the 15th-century Silver Pavilion (Ginkakuji) and the Chion-in Temple .

Chion-in is one of Japan's most famous temples, notable for its 24-meter-high, two-story tower (Sammon-san), which houses the country's largest bell. Weighing 71 tons, it was cast in 1633, and is rung only during festivals in mid-April. Gion is a wonderful (and safe) place to enjoy a walking tour at night, too.

Address: Nishi Ten-o-cho, Okazaki, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kansai 606-8341

Originally constructed in 1624 for Prince Hachijo Toshihito, brother of Emperor Goyozei, Katsura Imperial Villa is home to splendid historic architecture and one of Japan's most famous historic gardens.

Designed by Kobori Enshu with assistance by the prince, this beautiful garden is laid out in such a way that the visitor always sees things from the front - smaller gardens are grouped around a large pool with the summits of Mounts Arashiyama and Kameyama in the background.

Highlights include the Miyuki-mon Gates and the many garden paths, some made from river pebbles and others of rectangular cobbles, edged by mosses and bushes. These lead through more gates into the inner garden with a group of buildings known as the Goten at its center.

A particular highlight here is the veranda of Furu-shoin, specially designed to permit observation of the moon, and the three rooms of the Naka-shoin with its many fine paintings by Japan's leading artists. If time allows, be sure to stop and enjoy a meal or light refreshments in one of the many on-site teahouses.

Address: Katsuramisono, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 615-8014

Official site: https://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/guide/katsura.html

The Daitoku-ji Temple - the Zen Temple of Great Virtue - is one of the principal temples of the Rinzai sect and was founded in 1324. The present structures date from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Of the 22 buildings on-site, seven are open to the public. These include the Kara-mon, a Chinese-style gate with magnificent carvings, and the two-story main gate, Sammon, built in 1589 and notable for its many fine ceiling paintings and statues. The Main Hall, the Butsuden (or Daiyu-den), was built in 1664 and contains a statue of Shakyamuni with his disciples Anna and Kayo and a figure of Daito-kokushi, first Abbot of the temple.

Beyond the Main Hall is the Lecture Hall, or Hatto, based on Chinese models, and the Hojo, or Abbot's Lodging, with its paintings, wooden tablet, and adjoining garden.

Other highlights include the old Abbot's Lodging (Shinju-an) with its statues and tombs dating from the 14th century, and a lovely Zen garden.

Address: 3 Murasakino Daitokujicho, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 603-8231

The Byōdō-in Temple, established in AD 988, boasts many unique buildings, shrines, and artworks and is worthy of a visit. Highlights include the Phoenix Hall (Hoo-do), with its bronze phoenixes on its two gables and rich interior décor. This attractive hall also features 11th-century paintings, including an imposing gilded figure of Amida, and an altar and ceiling inlaid with bronze and mother-of-pearl.

Adjoining is the Kannon-do, a hall directly above the river and known as the Tsuridono, or Fishing Hall. Be sure to spend time visiting the temple gardens with their many fine ponds, as well as the Byōdō-in Museum with its treasures relating to the temple site, including its 52 wooden Buddha statues, carved phoenixes, and the original temple bell.

Also worth a visit is the Zen Tenryu-ji Temple .

Address: Renge-116 Uji, Kyoto Prefecture 611-0021

Official site: www.byodoin.or.jp/en/

Perched atop a mountain in the tourist-heavy Arashiyama is one of the most interesting things to do in Kyoto – the Arashiyama Monkey Park. More than 100 snow monkeys call this park home, roaming freely amid the tourists who come to take a peek.

Getting so close to these wild creatures is a fascinating experience, but can also be a little unnerving, as the monkeys have no fear when approaching humans – especially if you've got a bit of food for them. The park features an enclosed area where you can buy bananas to feed to the monkeys. Don't worry – they stay behind the fence. But they do grab, so proceed with caution.

Even if you aren't interested in the monkeys, the top of the mountain has one of the best views of the city below. The walk up the hill takes about 30 minutes and is manageable for most levels.

While in Arashiyama, no trip is complete without a walk through the magnificent Bamboo Grove. No experience is quite like this anywhere else in the world. Get lost among towering stalks of glowing green as you walk the paved path that winds its way through the sun-drenched bamboo forests. In some places, the bamboo is so thick that it's impossible to see through to the other side.

Walking through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is like being transported into another world. But because the legend of its beauty has traveled far and wide, it's a good idea to get here early, so you have the forest to yourself as much as possible.

So much of Kyoto is steeped in ancient history. But that does not mean that Kyoto is not a modern city. One look at the soaring Kyoto Tower will snap you back into the 21st century.

Standing at 131 meters tall, Kyoto Tower is the tallest structure in the city. It features a viewing platform at 100 meters, which has one of the very best views of the entirety of Kyoto. On clear days, you can even see as far as Osaka.

The rest of the building includes offices, restaurants, shops, and a hotel. You can find Kyoto Tower across the street from Kyoto Station.

Address: 721-1 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan

Official site: https://www.kyoto-tower.jp/

Japanese history spans centuries and touches on everything from architecture and religion to food and culture. Part of that culture includes the samurai and ninja. In Kyoto, it is possible to delve deeper into this world at the Kyoto Samurai and Ninja museum.

Home to many different exhibits, the museum covers everything from armor and weapons to medieval Japanese history. Many of the armor comes from the Edo period of Japan, which was more than three centuries ago.

For a bonus, the museum also offers a Samurai Experience, where visitors can learn the traditional sword movements that the Samurai used, trained by an actual Samurai master.

Address: Teramachi Utanokoji building 2F, 292, Higashidaimonjicho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto

Official site: https://mai-ko.com/samurai/

One thing you will be doing extremely well in Kyoto is eating. Why not learn a bit about Japanese dining culture with a traditional kaiseki meal? The kaiseki meal is a multi-course, meticulously prepared meal that is as equally delicious as it is a work of art. The purpose of kaiseki is to show the utmost hospitality, making guests feel that they are extremely special. Kyoto has many restaurants dedicated to the art of kaiseki.

The meals are always different, but the pillars are usually the same: an appetizer, a simmered dish, a sashimi, something seasonal, a grilled course, and a dish with rice. Most kaiseki meals are served on the ground, with guests sitting on tatami mats.

Kyoto's Gion district has many places to try a kaiseki meal. Meals tend to run on the expensive side. It is a good idea to make reservations ahead of time, as these experience rarely allow walk-ins. One of the best in the city can be found at Gion Owatari, which is a two-star kaiseki restaurant that is extremely popular among Japanese foodies.

While in the Gion district , it may be interesting to try a traditional tea ceremony. The Japanese tea ceremony is a centuries-old tradition. It involves preparing and drinking green tea in a special, celebrated way. Like the kaiseki meal, tea ceremonies are meant to make guests feel special and welcome. Tea ceremonies are often performed while sitting on the floor.

Tea came over to Japan from China in the 8th century. Around the 14th century, tea-drinking parties became a form of socializing and a way to show off knowledge about tea. The most formal tea ceremony lasts multiple hours, and usually starts with a kaiseki meal. However, modern day tea ceremonies are much shorter.

A host will prepare the tea in front of the guests. Before the tea is sipped, guests are supposed to eat a sweet treat. Then the tea is poured and sipped from a special tea bowl, all the while adhering to the proper placement of the bowl. It is a beautiful, historic experience, and Kyoto is one of the best places in Japan to learn about this important part of Japanese culture.

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Places to Visit near Kyoto : Osaka is an easy day trip from Kyoto, and the city is less than 90 minutes away by high-speed train. Once there, you'll enjoy historic points of interest such as Osaka Castle and Shitennō-ji Temple, and more modern attractions including the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and the huge Tempozan Ferris Wheel. For those wanting to see a few off-the-beaten-trail destinations, consider taking a day trip . Popular options include the historic temples of Nara and the busy port of Nagoya , each an easy rail journey away.

Explore Japan's Rich History : Chances are if you like Kyoto, you're also going to like the city of Fukuoka . This fascinating city is famous for its huge 17th-century castle, the splendid Sumiyoshi-jinja Shrine, as well as modern attractions like the beautifully designed Kyūshū National Museum. Nagoya is also worth visiting for its history. An easy train ride away, the city boasts numerous lovely shrines and temples, and its own well-preserved historic castle.

Japan Vacation Ideas : Japan, of course, offers no end of great vacation choices. A few favorites include exploring the sites of Tokyo , with its endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options; magnificent Mount Fuji , perhaps the country's most recognizable natural feature; and the beautiful island of Hokkaido, where you'll have the chance to explore the country's most northerly major city, Sapporo .

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15 best things to do in Kyoto

Jan 25, 2024 • 9 min read

Beautiful Kyoto offers tons of things to do and see - here are our favorites © Guitar Photographer / Shutterstock

Kyoto is on the travel list of most first-time visitors to Japan  for good reason. With its fleet of over 2000 temples, lush gardens and traditional tea houses, Kyoto is one of Japan’s major historical hubs – to say nothing of being easy on the eye (enjoy a sunset on the hill in Kiyomizu-dera to see what we mean).

It can be easy to get lost in the tangle of streets – Kyoto is one of those cities where it’s easy to just pick a walking direction and see what you find, whether it’s an unexpected shrine in the middle of a commercial street, sakura-lined canal or well-appointed park. But sometimes, it pays to prioritize. Plan a trip around the following can’t-miss sights and experiences to maximize your time in the city.

1. Stay golden at Kinkaku-ji

Kinkaku-ji is a tourist favorite – nicknamed Golden Pavilion for its gold-leaf gilded upper layers, this zen temple is a magnificent sight regardless of the time of year. One-way foot traffic flows fairly consistently but tends to bunch up directly in front of the temple, where visitors tend to pause to grab a show-stopping photo of the temple reflected in the pond (again, who can blame them?).

Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the rush.

2. Walk through the iconic orange gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha

There’s a reason that Fushimi Inari-Taisha ranks high on every visitor’s list: the 10,000 vibrant orange torii (gates) snaking up the hill to create the ultimate photo op. The practice of donating a gate to the temple has been in place since the Edo Period and carries on today as businesses celebrate their successes with an act of gratitude. 

Start at the lower level to admire the skulk of fox statues – the manifestation of the Shintō god Inari, the protector of rice, tea, agriculture and industry.  The full loop takes two to three hours to complete, but it’s worth making the climb to avoid the throng of visitors that usually populate the lower levels (don’t worry, there are plenty of vending machines to keep you hydrated along the way). 

Alternatively, it’s worth considering a sunrise visit, when the local monks are making their way up the hill to work and the resident cat population is out to play.

3. Find fortune at Kiyomizu-dera

Located in Eastern Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera  literally towers over the city with the help of 139 stilts. During the Edo period, seekers would jump from the temple's platform to the ground 43ft below in order to make their wishes come true. Today, you can instead find your fortune at the sacred Otowa Waterfall. Located on the temple’s lower level, the stream is divided into three sections, delivering longevity, academic success or luck in love depending on which one you drink from (take note that drinking from more than one stream is considered greedy). But you don’t need any luck to enjoy the temple’s panoramic views over the city, which are enhanced by spring sakura (cherry blossom) season, autumn foliage and stunning sunsets.

4. Time travel at Nijō-jo

Enter through Nijō-jō 's large eastern battlements to step back in time. The castle was the former home of Tokugawa shoguns, and its lavishly appointed gardens and opulent chambers filled with detailed murals and intricate carvings speak to the warlord collective’s extreme wealth. 

Keep an eye out for the painted lions (created by an artist who had yet to see the real thing in person), and experience the sensation of walking barefoot across the “nightingale floors,” which chirp like the birds they’re named after – a built-in sonic defense against intruders.

5. Enjoy a stroll at Koke-dera

Koke-dera (the nickname for  Saiho-ji ) is so stunning that the temple inspired “Moss Garden,” a track on David Bowie’s 1977 album Heroes . However, walking in Ziggy Stardust’s footsteps takes some advance planning. In order to preserve Koke-dera’s tranquility, visitors must register at least one day in advance (although up to two months earlier is advisable due to capacity restraints). 

Once inside, guests are asked to participate in an act of devotion, usually copying a series of Buddhist sutras. Consider it an appetizer for the main course: a half-hour stroll through the scenic garden blanketed in 120 different kinds of moss.

6. Sip on some matcha

Matcha was originally drunk by Chinese Buddhist monks who believed the highly caffeinated beverage assisted in their quest for nirvana. When the religion spread to Japan, matcha came with it, particularly in the southern region of Kyoto Prefecture, which has an 800-year tradition of cultivation. To learn more about the beverage, start with a traditional tea ceremony at Camellia for an experience that will not only walk you through the elaborate steps of preparation but also explain the historical and practical reason behind each movement. 

For a more modern take, stop by Maccha House . Their flagship store on Shijō Kawaramachi serves a number of unique twists on the beverage, including a brown sugar matcha latte and their signature Uji Matcha Tiramisu. Tea shops like  Ippōdō and Marukyu Koyamaen (located in Kyoto Isetan department store adjacent to Kyoto Station) can help you bring the zen home with you. 

While you’re at it, be sure to grab some wagashi , a delicate red bean and sugar pastry that pairs perfectly with the matcha’s earthy essence.

7. Get your ramen fix

Kyoto’s food scene is often overlooked thanks to neighboring Osaka, aka “the nation’s kitchen.” However, the city has been teasing out different types of the famous noodle soup since the first ramen street stall was set up in 1961. 

Kyoto Gogyo is known for its high-end burnt ramen, with broth cooked at extremely high temperatures to create a smoky char and entertaining fiery show while you eat – so be sure to request a seat at the bar. Vegan Ramen UZU Kyoto ’s mushroom-based ramen is served in a darkened dining room, lit by TeamLab’s “Reversed Indiscretion,” a mesmerizing piece of digital art that creates calligraphy-like swoops across the walls and table. Engine Ramen has become a favorite due to its ability to make any item on the menu vegan or gluten-free. Just be sure to line up early as the restaurant regularly fills up after it opens for dinner at 4pm.   

8. Embrace all the options at Nishiki Market

If variety is your spice of life, then Nishiki Market is your place. Also known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this five-block collection of over 100 restaurants and shops is the perfect place for snacking on local specialties. It also doesn’t hurt that many stalls give out free samples. Feeling brave? Try the shockingly photogenic t ako tamago ( a baby octopus with an egg in its head), or beef sushi. 

Other crowd-pleasers include soy milk donuts, rice crackers, and dashimaki – a Japanese rolled omelet that some stalls serve as tempura.

9. Bring home sustainable souvenirs

From bento boxes to  washi  (handmade paper) and porcelain, Kyoto is a great place to pick up souvenirs. You could easily spend the day browsing tourist-favorite department stores Takashimaya and Daimaru Kyoto. To bring home a piece of history, consider a stop at Vintage Kimono AN Gion , a cozy storefront crammed with vintage kimonos. Not only do they sell the historical robes at extremely reasonable prices (often as low as ¥1000), but they also offer obi belts and damaged kimonos for those looking to repurpose the silk.

10. Stay at a ryokan

Kyoto is considered one of the great historical epicenters of Japan, so there’s no better way to experience the region's essence than by staying in a ryokan. These traditional inns are generally smaller than their western counterparts and outfitted with woven tatami mats, futons that are rolled out every night and all matter of meaningful art. The intimate setting allows owners to provide guests with more personalized attention in addition to the kind of lavish meals you’re unlikely to find elsewhere. 

For the ultimate indulgence, consider a night in the Tawaraya Ryokan , where David Bowie and Iman stayed during their honeymoon. This historic ryokan is 300 years old and in its 12th generation of family ownership. It’s regularly considered one of the most exclusive hotels in the world.

11. Relax in an onsen

More than just a bath (although it certainly is that), onsen are a great way to connect with nature and friends while participating in an act of self-care, provided you’re comfortable with group nudity. Carefully wash yourself from head to toe before slipping into hot water with a mineral content that locals claim can cure a WebMD worth of ailments.

If you want to soak within the city limits, head to Fu-fu-no-yu , a facility with stunning rock-lined pools inches from the Katsura River.

12. Wander through Arashiyama

The sound of bamboo in the wind is part of Japan's national heritage. Located in the Western Kyoto district of Arashiyama, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most famous places in the world to hear it. Just keep in mind that, while scenic, the 140m (459ft) walk isn’t as quiet as you might have been led to believe thanks to its popularity. If you’re in the market for the ultimate selfie, or just a more restful experience, visit at sunrise. 

Not an early riser? Opt to visit Shoden-ji , a temple in Northern Kyoto with an abundant bamboo groove that’s often overlooked by tourists.

13. Enjoy an urbane escape at Ōkōchi Sansō

Despite its proximity to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, many tourists miss Ōkōchi Sansō in their rush to grab that perfect Instagram snap. This former home of 1920s samurai film actor Ōkōchi Denjirō is the perfect place to escape the crowds. Work up a thirst with a wander through the immaculate hillside gardens that offer panoramic views of the city from the top. Then retreat to the on-site tea house for a proper break with a side of complimentary matcha and Japanese sweets.

14. Embrace the seasons at Osawa Pond

Osawa Pond is a 15-minute walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, but the garden feels plucked from an entirely different era. The human-made pond is the oldest known surviving Japanese garden and a peaceful refuge to enjoy fall colors and spring sakura season. Be sure to visit Daikaku-ji next door, a sprawling Shingon Buddhist temple with architecture so untouched by time it’s often used as a filming location for historical dramas.   

15. Explore Gion District

Geisha, or geiko as they’re called in Kyoto, are one of the icons of the city. These skilled hostesses and entertainers are usually employed at dinners and other high-end events at venues along the lantern-lined streets of the Gion neighborhood. Like the geiko themselves, the district is a living tribute to the Edo era, with its narrow wooden storefronts, teahouses, and stores dedicated to traditional handicrafts creating the perfect escape from the modern era.

This article was first published Mar 10, 2020 and updated Jan 25, 2024.

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Kyoto (���s, Kyōto) served as Japan's capital and the emperor 's residence from 794 until 1868 . It is one of the country's ten largest cities with 1.5 million inhabitants and a modern face.

Over the centuries, Kyoto was destroyed by many wars and fires, but due to its exceptional historic value, the city was dropped from the list of target cities for the atomic bomb and escaped destruction during World War II . Countless temples , shrines and other historically priceless structures survive in the city today.

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Kyoto by interest

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Itinerary ideas.

• Walk the Philosopher's Path
• Beautiful temples and shrines
• Attractive Higashiyama streets

• See the bamboo groves
• Visit the monkey park
• Serene temples and gardens

• Visit beautiful temples
• Explore Higashiyama and Gion

• Visit beautiful temples and shrines

• Explore attractive Arashiyama

• Explore Kyoto's northern side
• Visit Kinkakuji , Ryoanji and Ninnaji temples

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25 Best Things to Do in Kyoto: Explore Bucket List Spots Like Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Gion, and More!

Shrines, temples, tours, day trips... If you've started looking into a trip to Kyoto, you might be overwhelmed by how much there is to see and do here. As the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years, Kyoto has a long history as a cultural powerhouse, and you can still experience the city's historical beauty and unique traditions today. In this article, we've compiled 25 of the best things to do in Kyoto. Read on to learn about the best sightseeing spots and activities to add to your Japan bucket list!

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About Kyoto

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Located in the Kansai area of Western Japan, Kyoto is one of Japan's most famous tourist destinations. As the old capital, Kyoto has a wealth of shrines, temples, historical areas, and gardens to see. At the same time, Kyoto is a modern city with plenty of shopping, gourmet dining, and entertainment options as well.

Kyoto is easy to access from Tokyo by bullet train, and is only a 30-minute train ride from Osaka. Kyoto also makes a great base for exploring the Kansai area, with the surrounding cities of Osaka, Nara, Kobe, and Japan's biggest lake, Lake Biwa, all very easy to get to from the Kyoto city center.

The climate in Kyoto can be very hot in the summer and fairly cold in the winter. The best times of the year to visit are arguably the cherry blossom season in early April, the autumn foliage period in late November, and the Gion Matsuri period in July. For obvious reasons, these are also extremely crowded periods, as are long Japanese holiday periods such as Golden Week (April 29 to early May) and Obon (mid-August). So if you're planning a trip during these times, it's best to secure all your reservations well in advance. 

A good starting point for planning any visit to Kyoto is our Ultimate Kyoto Travel Guide . Here you'll find everything you need to know about where to stay, eat, shop, as well as all the info you need to get around and stay safe in Kyoto. 

Nijo Castle Kyoto Tour

As the capital of Japan for a thousand years, Kyoto was the home to Japan's royalty, but the Imperial Family was not the only seat of power in ancient Kyoto. The shogunate, Japan's feudal military government, held power over the country from 1185 to 1868.

Completed in 1603, Nijo Castle served as residences, offices, and reception spaces for the Tokugawa shogunate. In 1867, the last shogun, Tokugawa Yoshinobu, declared the end of the shogunate and the return of power to the Imperial Court at this very castle. After this period, Nijo Castle was used as a detached palace of the Imperial Court before being opened to the public in 1940.

Ninomaru Palace in the Nijo Castle complex is famous for its “nightingale floors”, named for the chirping sound the floorboards make when stepped upon. Ninomaru Palace is not just a site for history lovers; it's also a rare chance to see a range of decorative artworks like folding screens and wall and ceiling paintings displayed just as they were when the castle was in use by the shogunate.

This castle has a long and complex history, and was the site of some of the biggest changes in Japan's history. To properly appreciate its cultural, artistic, and historical background, we recommend seeing Nijo Castle with a guide. The 60-minute Nijo Castle Kyoto Tour  via Voyagin gives you 10% off the original tour price and is both an easy and affordably-priced way to deepen your experience of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. For more information about this tour, please see the link below!

Kyoto Imperial Palace and Imperial Palace Park

Kyoto was Japan's capital for over a thousand years, during which Kyoto, known as Heian-kyo at the time, flourished as a cultural and economic center. Since the capital moved to Tokyo in 1868, the Kyoto Imperial Palace has been preserved as a historical site. While some official functions are held here today, the grounds and gardens are open to the public. Inside the palace gates you'll find preserved buildings used by the Imperial Household and beautifully-crafted Japanese gardens.

In the past, visitors were required to register in advance for a tour to access the palace grounds, but today, anyone can visit without a reservation. Free tours are still available, and are worth joining to find out more about the history and architecture here. English language tours are held daily at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. To join, just visit the Visitors Room on the right of the entrance before the tour’s start time. Click this link for more details.

While historically the area around the Imperial Palace housed residences of court nobles and were walled off to the public, today this space serves as a large public park. Measuring 1.3 kilometers from north to south, the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park is an important green space for Kyoto locals, and also has a range of small shrines, temples, and historical buildings to see. In the spring, the weeping cherry blossom grove at the north of the park is one of the more spacious and peaceful spots in Kyoto for a hanami picnic .

If you're able to secure a tour reservation, the gardens of the Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace, also located in the park, are definitely worth visiting. This palace was built at the beginning of the 17th century for the retirement of Emperor Go-Mizunoo. While the original buildings have since been lost, many consider the gardens here to be some of the most beautiful in Kyoto.

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, with its thousand torii (shrine) gates, is one of Japan’s most iconic sights, and is definitely an unmissable stop during any visit to Kyoto. Located in the city's south, the shrine features torii gate-lined trails that lead around four kilometers up Mt. Inariyama. Along the way, you'll find lush forest and many charming sub-shrines to explore. It can take around two hours to walk up the full length of the trail, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes!

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine is open 24 hours a day, so you can walk the trails in the evenings or early morning if you want a more serene experience.

This shrine enshrines Inari, a fox god said to grant blessings for things like business and harvests, so keep your eyes peeled for the cute Inari statues found all over the complex.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera Temple, located in the southern Higashiyama district, is another of Kyoto’s busiest and well-known temples. The main hall’s balcony, or “stage”, seems to jut out of the mountainside, and gives a great view of Kyoto and the surrounding mountain forest. The vibrant red maples make a particularly beautiful sight here in the fall.

The main hall with its large stage was once the site of dangerous tradition. In the Edo period, it was said that if you survived the 13-meter jump from the stage, your wish would be granted. Of course, this practice has now been banned, but today you still hear Japanese people using the phrase “jumping from the Kiyomizu stage” to describe someone taking a leap of faith.

Luckily, there are still some safer places to make a wish at Kiyomizu-dera Temple! When you emerge from the main hall, take the stone stairs up to visit Jishu Shrine, which enshrines Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, a god of love and matchmaking. If you’re looking for love, stop and for one of the love-themed charms or fortunes here.

You’ll also see two stones decorated with ceremonial rope 18 meters apart on the central path of the shrine. If you can walk from one stone to the other with your eyes closed, it’s said you’ll find true love. Considering how busy this shrine can get, making the walk can be harder than it might seem!

Tenryu-ji Temple

World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple is one of Arashiyama’s most famous sights. The gorgeous Sogen Pond Garden (Sogenchi Teien) here has remained almost unchanged since it was first designed hundreds of years ago, and was the first site in Japan to be designated a Site of Special Historic and Scenic Importance by the Japanese government. The temple itself houses a number of important works of art, and it’s worth paying the small extra fee to access the temple's main building to see the gardens from a different angle while you take in the peaceful atmosphere.

If you enter the temple from the entrance near Hankyu Arashiyama Station and exit from the North Gate, you can head straight into Arashiyama’s famous bamboo forest. This part of the garden is called the Hyakka'en (Garden of a Hundred Flowers), and is a beautiful place to see each season's flowers in bloom. There is also a rest area near the North Gate that looks out over the bamboo forest itself. If there’s a breeze, you can hear the peaceful rustling and crackling soundscape the bamboo forest is known for.

There is also a Japanese vegetarian restaurant called Shigetsu on the premises. With sets starting at 3,300 yen, it’s best for a special meal, but if you want to try Japan’s shojin ryori (Zen temple cuisine), it’s well worth the visit.

Byodoin Temple

Byodoin Temple, located in Uji City to the south of Kyoto City, is a good temple to combine with a visit to Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, as it’s just a few more stops south on either the JR or Keihan lines.

Byodoin Temple’s Phoenix Hall was built in 1053, and is one of the few wooden structures in Kyoto from the Heian Period that has never needed to be rebuilt after fire or other disaster. This hall is so treasured in Japan, it’s even featured on the 10 yen coin. You must reserve a spot on a guided tour to enter and see the interior architecture and artworks housed within the hall. If tours are booked out for the day, the iconic view of the hall reflected in the Aji-no-Ike pond is worth the entry fee in and of itself.

Byodoin Temple is also a particularly beautiful spot for seasonal flowers. Around Aji-no-Ike pond, there are cherry blossoms in early April and a gorgeous trellis of wisteria plus azaleas in bloom in late April to mid-May. In summer, you can see water lilies and lotus, including a variety of lotus called Byodoin Temple Lotus. This plant was successfully germinated from a single, 200 year-old seed found during an excavation on the grounds, and doesn’t grow anywhere else in the world.

Sanzen-in Temple

Sanzenin Temple is the lagest temple in Ohara, a rural town to the north of Kyoto City. This temple is part of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism, and is also known to be a monzeki temple, or a temple where members of the Imperial Family served as priests. This temple has a range of buildings and gardens to explore, also houses a National Treasure, a image of Amida Nyorai flanked by two attendants that was created in the Heian era.

 The temple's Guest Hall offers a famous view of the picture-perfect Shuheki-en Garden. Here you can stop for some green tea and a traditional sweet as you take in the pond and landscaped features framed elegantly by the hall's architecture.

Sanzenin is particularly famous among Kyoto locals as a go-to destination for hydrangeas in the spring and beautiful autumn foliage that reaches its peak around a week before the city does. The reds and yellows of the autumn leaves look particularly stunning against the vivid green in the temple's Yusei-en moss garden.

If you're looking to experience Ohara the easy way, you'll find our suggestion for a half-day guided tour from the Kyoto City center that includes Sanzenin and other Ohara highlights below.

Fushimi Sake District Tour

The key to Japan’s most famous sake brewing areas is the quality of the local water. Kyoto Fushimi’s water is said to be perfect for sake thanks to its low iron content and ideal mineral balance, which is created by the underground layer of granite this water filters through.

Whether you’re a diehard sake fan or an absolute beginner, no visit to Kyoto would be complete without trying some of the city’s local sake. An easy way to do this is to explore the area with a guide on a Fushimi Sake District Tour .

This 2.5 hour tour gives you access to Kizakura Fushimigura, one of Fushimi’s best known breweries. You can learn about how high-quality sake is made and try sake pairings with different foods. Experts are on hand to explain the concepts to you in English, so you can leave confident about ordering sake for the rest of your trip!

This tour also takes you around the scenic Fushimi sake brewing area, including the historical buildings and tree-lined canals this area is famous for. This afternoon tour is good to pair with a morning visit to Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine. After the tour, why not take a cruise along the Fushimi canal?

Uji Tea Culture Exploration

Uji in Kyoto’s south is a city that produces some of the most prized matcha (green tea) in Japan. Uji was one of the first areas in Japan to start cultivating the green tea that was first imported from China. Over time, the custom of drinking tea spread through Kyoto’s nobility to the general public to become the staple of Kyoto’s food culture it is today.

Today, Uji is a popular scenic area, well known for its Uji Bridge, known as one of the three most ancient bridges in Japan, Byodoin Temple, and the city's rich tea culture. Many visitors enjoy strolling the riverbanks of the Uji River and trying foods made with the local tea like matcha ice cream and soba noodles.

If you want to escape the city, you can take a tour of different tea fields in Uji and its surrounding tea-growing areas. This is one of the easiest ways to find your way around the more rural areas where tea is grown. Visiting on a tour also gives you access to the private farms themselves, and usually come with tea tasting and other hands-on experiences, too. You can check out an example of Uji tea farm tours here !

Kyoto Izakaya Restaurant Tour

Kyoto is known for its many elegant, high-end restaurants, but the local izakaya culture is definitely not to be missed. Izakaya are Japanese-style pubs that serve affordable food and drinks in a relaxed environment. As casual as they are, if you’re new in town, it can be hard to know where to go and how to navigate the menus and sake choices.

This is why we recommend the Japanese Izakaya 101 tour via Voyagin . On this two hour tour, you'll meet with a guide who will take you to some of Kyoto’s best izakaya to try local food and sake. Unlike some other pub-crawl style tours, the guides on this tour take the time to teach you how to order, how to choose sake, and all the other basics travelers might need to know. After this tour, you’re sure to feel at home exploring izakaya on your own!

For more details, including pricing and how to book, check out the link below.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Located to the west of the Kyoto city center, Arashiyama is a historical area known for its beautiful natural scenery.The Arashiyama bamboo forest is one of the most iconic sights in Kyoto, and is a must-see when visiting the area any time of year. There are a number of paths through the bamboo forest, but the most popular area starts at the exit of the north gate of Tenryu-ji Temple mentioned above, and extends towards the entrance to Okochi Sanso Villa Garden.

Togetsukyo Bridge

Togetsukyo Bridge has been considered the symbol of Arashiyama for hundreds of years. This bridge has been rebuilt a number of times since its first version in 843, and the current bridge was rebuilt in 1934 to recreate the design first built in 1606.The name "Togetsukyo" means "Moon-Crossing Bridge", and it has a poetic origin. It's said that Emperor Kameyama, who reigned from 1260 to 1274, was enjoying a boating party on the river under a full moon when he was moved by the scenery before him to write a poem. In it, he remarked that it seemed as though the moon itself was crossing the bridge. This image clearly resonated with the Kyoto townspeople, as the bridge is still known by this name today.

Today, the sight of the Togetsukyo Bridge backdropped by mountains dotted with cherry blossoms or autumn foliage is one of the most iconic sights in Kyoto.

* Arashiyama is typically only lit up at night during the Kyoto Arashiyama Hanatouro period, which usually takes place every year on March.

West Kyoto Electric Bicycle Tours of Rakusai

If the crowds in Arashiyama leave you wanting to get off the beaten track, consider the  West Kyoto Electric Bicycle Tours of Rakusai . One of the main attractions of this bicycle tour is getting to cycle through the Rakusai Bamboo Park. Designed to educate the public about bamboo and its importance to Japanese culture, the park—consisting of a museum, bamboo path, and gardens—has over 200 varieties of bamboo from all over the world to see.

On this tour, you’ll also have the chance to visit Oharano Shrine and Nishiyama Yoshimine-dera Temple. Oharano Shrine is a historic shrine built in 784 that is known for its beautiful gardens, especially in the fall. Yoshimine-dera, built on the hillside, is best known for its 600-year-old white pine called Yuryu no Matsu (Frolicking Dragon Pine). Supported on bamboo trellis, this tree gets its name from the fact that it grows almost horizontally, resembling the body of a Japanese dragon. In fact, it's said to have the longest tree branch in Japan.

The Oharano area is definitely a hidden gem in Kyoto, but it's known as a tricky area to navigate. If you want to experience the history, nature, and culture of this little-known area without the hassle, look no further than this tour!

Philosopher's Path

Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path is a charming walk that runs from the Eikan-do Temple area to the Ginkaku-ji Temple area in northern Higashiyama. This path runs along the Lake Biwa Canal, and gets its name from the fact that Nishida Kitaro, a famous Kyoto philosopher, was said to meditate while walking along this path.

Lined with cherry trees, the Philosopher's Path is beautiful to walk in the spring, but as its name suggests, the seasonal foliage, charming local houses and gardens, and gentle flow of water through the canal makes for a meditative experience no matter the time of year. It should take around half an hour to make your way along the path, but there are some small boutiques and cafes along the way if you want to linger a little longer.

While you're in the area, we also highly recommend taking the time to visit Nanzen-ji Temple. This important Zen temple complex is known for its enormous Sanmon Gate and unique Lake Biwa Canal brick aqueduct, and is located just beyond Eikan-do Temple at the north end of the path.

Hanami Koji

Hanami Koji (Flower-Viewing Lane) is a preserved historical street in Kyoto's Gion area. The main section of this street is found off Shijo Street between Shijo Bridge and Yasaka Shrine, and runs from Shijo Street towards Kennin-ji Temple.

This is a scenic area for a stroll or a meal in one of the cafes and restaurants housed in the historical houses that line the street. As Hanami Koji lies within the Gion Kobu geisha district, in the evenings you might even be lucky enough to see one heading to or from an appointment at one of the traditional tea houses here. Of course, remember that any geisha you do see are professional artists at work, so be sure to respect their privacy and personal space.

One highlight of the street is Ichiriki Chaya, a high end, exclusive tea house where well-connected visitors have enjoyed luxurious meals, famous Japanese hospitality, and geisha performances for over 300 years. Western readers may recognize the name from its role as an important setting in the book and movie Memoirs of a Geisha. While access is by invitation only, its imposing exterior architecture facing Hanami Koji is an interesting glimpse at a landmark of Kyoto's elite.

Gion Shirakawa Area

Shirakawa is the name of the preserved historical area in Gion that runs along the Shirakawa Canal. Known for its pretty stone-paved streets, traditional townhouses, and willow trees, this area is a beautiful spot that’s very easy to get to from the major sightseeing areas. You’ll find your choice of traditional restaurants and tea houses here, and exploring the area gives a lovely experience of a traditional Gion streetscape. We recommend coming for a walk here in the evenings, as this area takes on a truly special atmosphere when lit by street lanterns.

Tatsumi Daimyojin is a tiny shrine located at the intersection of two of the prettiest streets in the area, Shirakawa Minami-dori and Shimbashi-dori, and is said to be a spot where the local geisha would traditionally pray at while working in the area.

Ohara Kyoto: Sanzenin Temple, Raigoin Temple & Hosenin Temple

Ohara is a small, rural town located around an hour’s drive north of the Kyoto city center. Famous for its incredible autumn scenery and beautiful temples, it’s an area that’s definitely worth exploring if you’re looking for an experience of rural Kyoto.

As it’s somewhat remote and not connected directly to the city by train, we recommend considering the  Ohara Kyoto tour via Voyagin. This five-hour tour takes you to Ohara by chartered taxi, and gives you a chance to enjoy private guided tours and experiences at Sanzenin Temple, Raigoin Temple, and Hosenin Temple.

Sanzenin Temple with ist famous Shuheki-en Garden mentioned previously is Ohara's biggest attraction. The nearby Raigoin Temple was founded as a training site for Buddhist monks in the Shomyo style of ritual chanting. Hosenin Temple displays some interesting contrasts. It has a beautiful, 700-year-old pine tree to see in its gardens, but is also known as one of Kyoto's "bloody" temples, with ceilings made from blood-stained floorboards taken from the original Fushimi Castle.

On this tour, you’ll explore all these beautiful temples and gardens, and have a chance to try some hands-on activities like sutra copying and chanting. You’ll finish your tour with green tea while enjoying the magical view of Hosenin's gardens illuminated in the evening.

For more information about this unique tour, you’ll find all the details at the link below.

Miyama Thatched House Village (Kayabuki no Sato)

Japan’s most famous thatched roof village is Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture, but not everyone knows that there is another village where you can see this beautiful style of traditional architecture not far from Kyoto City! 

Miyama is a thatched house village located around 50 kilometers from the Kyoto city center. Many of these beautifully-preserved houses are open as museums and restaurants, so you’ll have plenty to do as you explore the culture, history, and food of the area. You might find yourself not wanting to go back to the modern world, and luckily enough, you can also stay the night in some of these houses. If you’re with a group, you can even rent out an entire one for yourself!

Amanohashidate

Amanohashidate is a natural sand bridge that spans Miyazu Bay in northern Kyoto. It's famous for being one of the Three Views of Japan, a list of the three most scenic spots in Japan. Covered in pine trees, the sand bar is beautiful to explore in and of itself, and the view of it from the Kasamatsu Park observatory is stunning. A famous thing to do here is to look at the view upside down by bending forward and looking between your legs. It’s said the view from this angle makes the sandbar look like a dragon rising into the sky.

We've recommended a number Kyoto spots that are beautiful in spring and autumn, but Amanohashidate makes a great summer spot, especially if you're looking for somewhere to swim or enjoy water sports. There are regular events for visitors in the summer months, including sea kayaking, beach yoga, and paddle-boarding. For more information about how to book, check out the link to the Amanohashidate Tourism Association below. 

Of course, riding a bike along the sandbar, relaxing in the local hot springs, and trying some of the local, freshly-caught seafood is a relaxing way to enjoy the culture of Kyoto’s coastal areas any time of year!

Kurama and Kibune

If you’d like to experience the landscapes and lifestyles of people who live in the mountains that surround Kyoto City, Kurama and Kibune make a great half or full day trip. You can access both small towns on the Kurama line of the Eizan Electric Railway which departs from Demachiyanagi Station. You can take the train between them, or if you prefer, walk the 4 kilometer hiking trail that connects the two towns. 

Kurama is known for Kurama-dera Temple, situated on the top of Mt Kurama, a short walk from Kurama Station. The walk to the top is very scenic, with many charming shrines, statues, and natural features like waterfalls to explore. If you prefer, though, you can take a funicular up and down the mountain as well. 

Kurama Onsen is another famous destination in the area, and is known in Kyoto for its particularly scenic open-air hot springs.

Kibune is best known for Kifune Shrine, a shrine known for its famous red lantern lined stone stairs leading to the temple and its strong associations with water. You can drink sacred mountain water called "goshinsui" here, and even have your fortune told with water by buying a mizu-ura mikuji. To find out your fortune, just float the paper slip you're given in the temple's sacred water and wait for the text to appear.

Kibune is also known for its quality Japanese restaurants. In the summer, Kibune is one the best places to enjoy the tradition of kawa-doko (sometimes called kawa-yuka), where people dine on platforms built over the river. Here, visitors can enjoy meals while cooling down in the refreshing breeze that rises from the mountain stream.

Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market is sometimes nicknamed Kyoto’s kitchen, and when you visit this jam-packed shopping street you’ll quickly realize why. Whether you want to try Kyoto’s street food or are just interested in seeing some of the city’s traditional food culture, you’ll be amazed by the range of delicacies on offer here. Recommendations from Nishiki Market include Kyoto-style pickles, or tsukemono, made from local vegetables. The huge range of vegetables and pickling methods can be overwhelming, so be sure to take advantage of the free samples as you browse!

* The streets of Nishiki Market are quite narrow. Please be mindful of others by, for example, not staying in one place for a long time when the market is especially busy.

Kawaramachi Shopping Streets

Whether you're shopping for souvenirs, fashion, or local products, you're sure to find what you're after in Kawaramachi, Kyoto's main shopping area. As a general guide, you'll find Kyoto's high-end luxury stores and large department stores along Shijo-dori between Kawaramachi and Karasuma Stations, while the maze-like warren of shopping streets around the Teramachi shopping arcade are a hotspot for stylish fashion boutiques and lifestyle stores.

If you're into Japanese otaku culture, the Shinkyogoku shopping street which runs parallel to Teramachi is known for its game arcades and anime, manga, and video game stores. If you want to know more about these kinds of stores in Kawaramachi, check out our guide to the area here !

Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka

Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka are the names of the preserved hill roads that form the path to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. First built around the year 800, these preserved districts still have some of Kyoto's most unspoiled traditional streetscapes. 

If you're wanting to buy souvenirs, you won't have to look far in these areas. Here you'll find everything from boutiques selling high-quality local food, crafts, and ceramics, to touristy stores packed to the roof with all the cheap and cheerful souvenirs you could want. Make sure not to overload on souvenirs before you get to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, though!

Minamiza Theater

First founded in 1610 and recently reopened after extensive renovations, Kyoto’s Minamiza Kabuki Theater is one of the best places in Japan to experience kabuki theater. In fact, the kabuki tradition was said to have originated as performances held on makeshift stages on the Kamogawa River banks not far from where the Minamiza Theater stands today.

Kabuki is known for its bold, stylized performances and spectacular costuming and stage design. It originated as a form of popular entertainment, and even today is often said to be the most popular form of Japan’s traditional theater. This speaks to just how lively and entertaining kabuki can be, even to a modern audience. Even if you can’t understand the dialogue, a kabuki performance is a feast for the eyes and ears. While Minamiza Theater also hosts plays and concerts, it’s definitely worth trying to get a ticket to a kabuki performance at this historical theater while you’re in Kyoto.

Kyoto National Museum

Kyoto National Museum is one of Japan’s four official national museums, and displays fine art, handicrafts, and archeological artifacts from pre-modern Japan and Asia. There are almost always a number of different exhibits to see here, including rotating displays of the museum’s permanent collection and regular special exhibits. 

Even if you’re not particularly knowledgeable about Japanese art, you’re sure to find the classical pieces here beautiful in and of themselves. Since so much about a trip to Kyoto is about appreciating the history of the area, a visit to the Kyoto National Museum gives you a chance to learn a little more about the artistic and cultural background of the other sites you’ll be seeing.  When you come to Kyoto, be sure to visit the museum's official website below to see what exhibitions are on!

Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts Fureaikan

The Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts displays examples of all 74 of the designated traditional industries in Kyoto, with everything from textiles to ceramics and even roof tiles! Workshops and demonstrations are held almost every day, and you can even buy some handmade pieces for yourself. This museum is a great way to get a sense of the scope of the arts and crafts culture in Kyoto.

If you’re looking for a deeper experience of Kyoto’s craft culture, the Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts also manages the Kyoto Artisan Concierge. This service connects visitors with local artisans who are willing to open up their studios for visits. If you find yourself drawn to a particular craft while visiting the Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts, why not make use of this service to learn more?

Kyoto is a city that everyone should visit at least once. But with so much to do here, planning a trip to Kyoto can definitely be a challenge. We hope you can use this introduction to 25 things to do in Kyoto as a starting point for your itinerary. We've definitely just scratched the surface in this article, so if you want to know more, check out our other articles about Kyoto here . As long as you avoid peak travel periods such as the cherry blossom period (late March to early April), the autumn foliage period (late November to early December), and the Gion Festival period (July), we're sure you'll have a grand time exploring Kyoto!

If you want to give feedback on any of our articles, you have an idea that you'd really like to see come to life, or you just have a question on Japan, hit us up on our  Facebook ,  Twitter , or  Instagram !

Thumbnail: Benny Marty / Shutterstock.com

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

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Japan's ancient capital home to sacred shrines and Zen gardens

Top attractions in kyoto.

Nijo Castle

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kinkakuji Temple

Around kyoto.

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About Kyoto

Japan’s capital from AD 794 to 1868, the list of possible tourist destinations in Kyoto Prefecture (京都府, Kyōto -fu) is endless.

You can attempt to visit all of major sites, including but certainly not limited to: Fushimi Inari Shrine and its brilliant vermillion row of torii gates, its many temples (most notably Kiyomizu-dera , Sanjusangen-do , and Kinkaku-ji ), Nijo Castle , and Amanohashidate (one of the Three Views of Japan).

Or you can attempt to “experience” Kyoto and its rich culture: appreciate the traditional architecture and maiko of the Gion district , witness the Gion Festival (held every July), and indulge in the various delicacies Kyoto has to offer, such as Uji matcha green tea, tofu, and various Japanese confectioneries. Kyoto is on the bucket list of many a traveller, and for good reason. 

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15 Best Things To Do in Kyoto

Updated Apr. 24, 2024

Kyoto receives scores of visitors each year and crowds can be overwhelming at many of the city's top attractions. But never fear: A bit of planning can yield introspective experiences in peaceful atmospheres. Climb the well-worn steps of a  Shinto

• All Things To Do

Fushimi Inari Shrine Fushimi Inari Shrine free

As far as Shinto shrines go (there are about 400 in Kyoto), this one is pretty special. Perched on a wooded hillside in southern Kyoto, Fushimi Inari is a 1,300-year-old temple dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and  sake  (Japanese rice wine). The shrine complex dates back to the eighth century, but it's not the star of the show. Most visitors come for the close to 10,000 red and orange lacquered  torii  gates that line the 2 ½-mile-long path up Mount Inari, where the shrine sits. Sometimes in dense rows and other times more staggered, the gates are all engraved with the names of Shinto devotees who donated them.

It takes about three hours to make the trek up the mountain, and some recent visitors say that the hike is mildly strenuous, but almost all agree this is a must-see spot in Kyoto, especially for first-time visitors. Plus, travelers report that there are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. Peer at the dozens of stone and bronze foxes that line the paths along with the gates (foxes are thought to be Inari's sacred messengers). Or stop in to one of the tea houses or restaurants situated on the path, which serve udon noodle soup and sushi. Because crowds are drawn to their picturesque beauty, Fushimi Inari's trails can get quite congested during the day. To avoid the multitudes, opt for an evening stroll up the mountain – recent visitors say the pervading quiet coupled with the fading light filtering through the trees and  torii  gates makes for an eerie and spiritual experience. Early morning is another optimal time to experience the shrine sans the crowds.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Situated on Otowa Mountain in eastern Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera Temple wows travelers with its stunning natural scenery, which visitors say is best viewed from the verandah off the temple's main building. The "stage," as it's called, sits atop huge pillars more than 40 feet above the hillside and affords visitors panoramas of the surrounding forest. Those views are even more beautiful in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom or in the fall with the changing foliage. When you're done taking in the temple's surrounding beauty, you are invited to drink from the Otowa Waterfall, which gave the temple its name ( kiyomizu means "pure water"). The waterfall is divided into three streams, each of which is said to bring longevity, academic success or love, respectively. But according to temple etiquette, drinking from all three streams is bad luck, so don't be greedy.

Also within in the complex is the Jishu Shrine, a red-lacquered temple dedicated to Okuninushi-no-mikoto, the Shinto god of love. Visitors who can successfully walk between two stones outside of the shrine with their eyes closed (the stones are about 20 feet apart) will supposedly have their love-related wishes granted. Along with toying with their fates, recent travelers also enjoyed the souvenir shops found along the path to the temple. Many visitors insist that Kiyomizu-dera Temple should be on every Kyoto traveler's to-do list.

Gion Gion free

Recent visitors to Gion were in awe of its quaintness (though some travelers note that hordes of camera-wielding tourists can detract from the scenery). This neighborhood is known for its charming historic features: historic tea houses, willow-lined roads,  kaiseki  (Japanese haute cuisine) restaurants, wooden  ryokan  (Japanese guest houses) and shops selling local crafts and antiques. But all of those things are secondary to Gion's real source of fame – the geisha. Visitors to Gion may catch a glimpse of these extravagantly dressed women flitting between tea houses on wooden-sandaled feet.

Contrary to western belief, geisha are not prostitutes. A geisha's primary role is entertainment; she is hired to provide diversions at dinner parties and banquets in the form of singing, dancing, games and conversation. But they are more than mere performers: Geisha are living, breathing gatekeepers of ancient Japanese culture. They train from an early age in traditional Japanese art, dance and music, and perform at exclusive dinners in  ochaya  (tea houses), usually only for locals. While tourists can arrange geisha dinners as well, it will put quite a dent in a travel budget. Hiring one geisha for the evening with dinner for two can cost about 103,000 yen (about $900) or more. A less costly way to see Gion's geishas in action would be to check out the daily geisha performances at the Gion Corner theater, which cost 3,150 yen (about $28). Or, if you're visiting during April, you can catch the  Miyako Odori  dance festival – geisha dance performances, which are held four times daily during the festival at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo theater, cost between 4,000 and 5,500 yen (about $35 to $48) per person. You may also see geisha strolling through the neighborhood; keep a polite distance and refrain from photographing them without explicit permission.

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Arashiyama Arashiyama free

Arashiyama is a quaint neighborhood surrounded by trees and mountains on the western edge of Kyoto. The neighborhood's most iconic landmark is the wooden Togetsu-kyo Bridge, which has spanned the Katsura River since 1934. It makes a great spot for admiring cherry blossoms or changing fall foliage, depending on the season, though some visitors seem less than impressed with the bridge. If you want to avoid the tourist crowds that congregate on the bridge, consider renting a paddle boat to enjoy the scenery from the water. On either end of the bridge are a number of shops, restaurants, temples and gardens to explore. Some recent visitors enjoy walking around and taking in the sites, but others suggest renting a bike. You can get one for the day for around 1,000 yen (about $9) near train stations in Kyoto.

A visit to Arashiyama can be overwhelming, as there is so much to do and see here. It's best to arrive with a plan of action, and to not try to fit too many activities into one day. For example, you won't want to miss a stroll through the area's lush, peaceful bamboo groves, which recent visitors highly recommend. Once you're through the bamboo, you'll find yourself at Okochi Sanso Villa, a beautifully landscaped former residence of Japanese actor Okochi Denjiro. You can tour Denjiro's mossy, manicured gardens daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., and the admission price of 1,000 yen (about $9) includes matcha green tea and cake (make sure you keep your admission ticket to enjoy this).

Ryoanji Temple Ryoanji Temple

Every day, hundreds of people visit Ryoanji Temple to see its Zen rock garden – which is probably the most famous of its kind in Japan. Located in Kyoto's northern outskirts, the temple was built in 1450, but details surrounding the rock garden's origins are hazy. Its white pebbles, which surround 15 larger rocks, were laid sometime during the Muromachi period (between 1392 and 1573), but beyond that, the garden's origins are unknown.

From any vantage point, at least one of the garden's 15 rocks is obscured from view. But why? Visitors are invited to come to their own conclusions about the garden's deeper meaning. Along with viewing the rock garden, you can explore the temple's grounds, which include a 1,000-year-old pond fringed with lily pads and tree-lined walking trails. The garden, as well as the grounds, are among the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, which were designated by UNESCO in 1994.

Nishiki Market Nishiki Market free

For those unfamiliar with Japanese cuisine, a trip to Nishiki Market can be an overwhelming experience. This bustling, five-block-long covered market is lined with more than 100 stalls, each one hawking Japanese foods and specialty items that are hard to come by in the United States. With barely any English signage for reference, it might be difficult to determine what to buy or where to start. But just because Nishiki Market is busy and confusing doesn't mean you should avoid it. In fact, recent visitors said that's exactly why you should go, saying it's an essential food tour. Others pointed out that this is a great way to sample many different local cuisines without having to buy a whole meal.

The key here is to start small. Sample some authentic green tea or nosh on some  nigiri (rice balls). After you've acclimated yourself to the flavors, you can work your way up to the unfamiliar: roe-stuffed squid, dried kelp or silky  yuba  (tofu-milk skin). Of course, connoisseurs of Japanese cuisine can feel free to jump right in, but Nishiki Market can also offer new eating experiences to old pros. Alongside the more traditional Japanese fare, you'll find some trendier shops like Konnamonja, which sells doughnuts and soft-serve ice cream that are both made from tofu (and reportedly delicious). One thing to note: You'll have to sit (or stand) to eat your food. Walking and eating is not permitted, according to recent visitors.

Nijo Castle Nijo Castle

After years of bitter strife, the aging samurai lord Tokugawa Ieyasu finally wrested power from Japan's many warring clans and unified them at the turn of the 17th century. Upon being proclaimed Shogun (feudal military dictator) of Japan in 1603, Ieyasu constructed a palace that would reflect his supreme power. Nijo Castle in central Kyoto was certainly ostentatious enough to fit the bill. Unlike other noble homes of the day, Tokugawa's gleaming white structure – decorated with ornate wood carvings – was built for show, not for defense. Even the palace's moat and inner wall stood not as defensive structures, but rather as examples of the shogun's exclusivity; only Japan's highest-ranking officials were allowed into the castle's inner sanctum.

That is not to say that Nijo lacked in protective properties entirely. Decades of war had instilled in Tokugawa Ieyasu a deep-seated paranoia, so he had "nightingale floors" installed in his palace. Designed to creak under even the lightest footstep, these floors prohibited anyone from walking through the Nijo Castle unnoticed. Travelers today can tread upon these fabled floorboards as they tour the inside of the castle, but visitors suggest wearing socks, as you'll have to remove your shoes to enter the building. Outside the palace is the lovely Ninomaru Palace Garden designed by famed landscaper and tea master Kobori Enshu. Recent visitors applaud the site’s excellent guided tours in English and say the castle and surrounding gardens are quite beautiful. However, because it is on every tourist's "must-see" list, the castle can get quite crowded. To enjoy your visit in peace, stop by just after opening or right before closing.

Sanjusangendo Hall Sanjusangendo Hall

At nearly 400 feet, Sanjusangendo Hall is the longest wooden structure in Japan (there are archery contests held along the length of the hall every yeah). And lining its lengthy walls is a rare full set of 1,000 wooden statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. The human-sized statues were carved from Japanese cypress in the 12th and 13th centuries. Recent travelers are consistently blown away by Sanjusangendo and its statues, calling it an "amazing" and "thrilling" place to visit.

Sanjusangendo Hall is open between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. from April through mid-November, and between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. from mid-November through March. Visitors suggest arriving at Sanjusangendo early, as the hall is not well ventilated and only gets hotter and more crowded as the day goes on. Admission costs 600 yen (about $5.25) per person (half-price for children). To get to Sanjusangendo Hall, take bus No. 100, 206 or 208 from Kyoto Station to the Hakubutsukan-Sanjusangendo-mae stop. Alternatively, you can take the Keihan subway line to Shichijo Station (Sanjusangendo is about a 5-minute walk from there). The temple sits across the street from the Kyoto National Museum, and many visitors suggest stopping by both attractions. For more information, visit the official website (in Japanese).

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Philosopher's Walk Philosopher's Walk free

Honoring Japanese philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who used to stroll here on his commute to Kyoto University in the early 20th century, the Philosopher's Walk is a roughly mile-long pathway along the Lake Biwa Canal in the Higashiyama district of northern Kyoto. In the spring, the cherry trees overhang the canal blossom, emitting a flurry of petals onto the path every time the wind blows. But recent visitors say that Philosopher's Walk is gorgeous no matter the season.

Past travelers suggested setting aside about an hour to enjoy the walk, noting that you'll probably want to stop along the way to admire the temples and shrines that can be found just outside the walking path. Others also caution that the area can get quite congested during cherry blossom season. Although there are no public restrooms along the walk, there are cafes and shops.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Its top two floors swathed in gold leaf, the Golden Pavilion sits pretty in Kyoto's northern reaches, overlooking the glassy surface of Mirror Lake. Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu lived in the gilded structure in the late 14th and early 15th centuries after he passed political power down to his son, Ashikaga Yoshimochi. When his father died, Yoshimochi had the pavilion converted into a Buddhist temple. However, in 1950, an extremist monk set the golden temple aflame, reducing it to smoldering ashes. What now stands is a replica of Kinkaku-ji that was built in 1955.

Many recent travelers note the gorgeous natural scenery surrounding Kinkaku-ji; the golden temple reflecting in the smooth lake makes for a great photo, no matter the season. Unfortunately, some visitors say that throngs of tourists mar the temple's tranquil atmosphere. To enjoy the attraction without the crowds, heed the advice of reviewers and avoid an afternoon or weekend visit. Keep in mind: Visitors are not permitted to enter the pavilion.

Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Unlike the very literally named Golden Pavilion, the Silver Pavilion is not actually silver – though it was intended to be. Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, who built Ginkaku-ji in 1482 as his retirement villa, died before he could swath the structure in silver leaf. But even without the bling, Ginkakuji and its grounds are stunningly beautiful.

The main pavilion, which was converted into a Zen shrine, sits overlooking a glassy pond surrounded by trees. Unfortunately, you can't go in – none of the buildings are open to the public. But visitors come here to enjoy the outdoors. As you stroll around the grounds, you'll come across a lush garden filled with mossy groves, as well as a Zen garden called "The Sea of Silver Sand." If you continue up along the path to the back of the garden, you'll enjoy a stunning view of the temple grounds as well as the city below. Many recent visitors said that a stroll around the garden at any time of day is gorgeous, even if it gets crowded at times (your best bet is to visit right when it opens or on Mondays). Several travelers stopped here while enjoying the Philosopher's Walk as the temple is located just off the trail.

Kyoto International Manga Museum Kyoto International Manga Museum

Many of Kyoto's top attractions pay homage to a Japan of the past, but the Kyoto International Manga Museum focuses on a very current form of Japanese art. Manga is a style of comics that exploded in popularity during the post-World War II period (though some historians date it back to the 12th century) and has steadily been gaining worldwide exposure in the past 60 years. The International Manga Museum, which opened in 2006, showcases a massive collection of Manga (around 300,000 items), from famous works like "Astro Boy" to more obscure comics by non-Japanese artists.

Recent visitors marvel at the museum's extensive collection, and said this is a must-do if you're a manga fan. For many, being able to sit and read the manga copies stored here was a highlight (reviewers said it felt more like a library than a museum). Travelers were also pleased that there were translations in other languages besides Japanese.

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The 18 BEST Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan (2024 Update)

• Last Updated: January 25, 2024

When trying to pick the best things to do in Kyoto, Japan, you can’t go past this guide! Be amazed at what to do in Kyoto, the ancient capital city of the country!

Kyoto is one of the most popular places to visit in Japan and proudly one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. Many tourists frequent the city every year to experience the uniqueness of Kyoto.

People love Japan for its balance between modern advancements such as in technology while still keeping its traditional roots. Kyoto is no different.

This city remains the go-to destination for those who expect to see magnificent bamboo forests, beautiful Buddhist temples and shrines, theatre, and colourfully dressed geishas.

Visitors should also look forward to walking through brightly coloured Torii gates, learning how to brew Japanese tea, enjoying cherry blossoms and experiencing Buddhism.

READ MORE: Check out our brand new travel to Japan guide!

Table of Contents

1. Kinkaku ji Temple

2. ryoan ji temple, 3. kyoto international manga museum, 4. gion – the geisha district, 5. monkey park in iwatayama, 6. nijo castle, 7. visit pontocho for a fine dining experience, 8. tenryu ji temple, 9. kiyomizu dera temple, 10. arashiyama bamboo grove, 11. kifune shrine, 12. fushimi inari shrine, 13. nishiki market, 14. philosopher’s walk, 15. attend a silk weaving and kimono fashion parade, 16. attend festivals and events, 17. fushimi sake district, 18. take part in a traditional tea ceremony, best hostel in kyoto – friends kyo, best mid-range accommodation – daiwa roynet hotel kyoto shijo karasuma, best luxury hotel – the ritz-carlton kyoto, what to do in kyoto – our list of the best attractions.

For those wondering what to do in Kyoto, this is the right article for you.

If you have a short trip planned, check out our detailed 3 days in Kyoto itinerary !

One of the top attractions when you visit Kyoto, the name Kinkaku ji Temple is a translation for Temple of the Golden Pavilion. It was previously known as Rokuonji, however.

This popular Zen Buddhist Temple was the retirement villa for Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, a retired shogun of the Rinzai Sect.

The top two floors of the Kinkaku ji Temple are made in gold leaf as the retired shogun intended originally, hence the name, Golden Pavillion.

The Buddhist temple is a shariden, a place they use to store Buddha’s important items, for example, his ashes.

Visitors get to see different architectural styles on each of the three floors of the Kinkaku ji Temple.

The first floor is made of wood and white plaster. Here, they used the shinden-zukuri style. The second floor is where the Samurais resided, and they used the Bukke style.

The architecture of the third floor resembles that of a Chinese Zen Hall.

A massive pond overlooks the Kinkaku ji Temple, and from the other side, tourists can see the many statues in the building. There is a garden that leads to the Sekkatei Teahouse.

To get to temple, from Kyoto Station take bus number 101 or 205. It costs 230 Yen and takes close to 40 minutes.

Or take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kitaoji Station for 260 Yen for 15 minutes, which is the best way. From there, take a 10-minute taxi (1000-1200 Yen) or bus numbers 101, 102, 204 or 205 (230 Yen) to Kinkaku ji Temple.

Check out our Japan vlog on exploring one of Kyoto’s famous attractions in Kyoto, Japan

Of all of the temples and shrines in Kyoto, Ryoan ji Temple is another popular Kyoto must-see site for tourists because of its spectacular rock garden.

The Myoshinji School of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism owns the garden, and the head temple is located one kilometre south of the garden.

Despite the mystery surrounding its construction and motive, many people believe that it is up to each person to interpret the meaning for themselves.

The garden itself is made up of a low stone wall surrounding a plot with 15 stones laid in groups on moss. Small white pebbles cover the rest of the garden.

Fun fact is that no matter where a person stands, one rock will always be out of view for him or her.

There is a pond that is believed to have existed since the time the aristocrats lived there with a shrine on one of its islands.

Book a half day tour to enjoy the Ryoan ji Temple, one of the best things to see when visiting Kyoto.

One can access the Ryoan Ji Temple from Kinkakuji by a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute bus ride. A more direct route is by JR bus. The journey costs 230 Yen and is about 30 minutes long.

READ MORE: Want to see other places in the area? Check out these great day trips from Kyoto !

This fascinating museum opened in November 2006. It has three floors with walls lined with manga comics on its shelves.

The Kyoto International Manga Museum is a welcome change from the traditional types as it deals with a current popular Japanese art form, Manga.

It is one of the few Kyoto attractions that are unique and educational for tourists as it features modern art forms such as manga.

Although manga is an internationally-recognised art form, most of the books in the museum are in Japanese.

Books written by international artists are also on display in the museum, and their work is included in events held by the manga museum on the subject.

Besides the vast manga display, there is a display of things that belonged to the elementary school that was hosted in the building before. The Kyoto International Manga Museum is definitely one of the coolest attractions in the city.

It is two minutes from the Karasuma-Oike subway station. It costs 210 Yen, and the journey is about 5 minutes long.

READ MORE: Looking for something to do at night in Kyoto? Read this post on all the city has to offer!

People recognise the Japanese culture by its beautiful and colourfully dressed geishas.

Being the most popular geisha district, the government financed Gion’s restoration by running all overhead utilities below the ground to maintain its original beauty, tradition, and charm.

Visiting the Minamiza Theatre, popular for its Kabuki shows, is an interesting thing to do in Kyoto. Kabuki shows are a theatrical performance that incorporates dance, over-the-top makeup, and bright colors.

Tourists visit Hanami-koji Street for its gift shops, restaurants, teahouses (ochaya), and places where geishas (geiko in Kyoto dialect) and maikos (geisha protégés) perform.

For those who like fine dining, Hanami-koji Street, located from Kennin ji Temple to Shijo Avenue is the place to visit in Kyoto.

The well-preserved machiya houses on the street and in the alleys serve both local and international cuisines. Next to Shijo Avenue is the Shirakawa Canal, a quieter version of Hanami-koji.

For the best souvenirs and authentic Japanese street finds around Kytoto, visitors can visit Higashiyama District between Kiyomizu dera and Yasaka Shrine.

Make sure you sign up for this awesome Geisha night walk around Gion!

Check out our Japan vlog on exploring one of Kyoto’s famous Gion District in Kyoto, Japan

Of all the things to see in Kyoto, the Japanese Macaques (snow monkeys) are the most fascinating. They are beautiful and may even steal food from visitors that are inattentive.

The hike to the top of Mount Arashiyama is treacherous but worth it because of the great view of the city. Visitors are placed in cages so that they are protected from aggressive monkeys during feeding.

Food for the monkeys can be bought in the park for a chance to interact with the monkeys.

The park is also educational as there are quizzes that inform visitors about the monkeys and their habitat. This is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Kyoto.

Visitors can get to Iwatayama Monkey Park by either a 30-40-minute hike up the slopes of Mount Arashiyama or a 5-minute walk from the Hankyu Arashiyama Station.

Nijo Castle is a robust imperial palace built to protect its inhabitants from any attacks.

Its layout consists of an outer wall, an inner wall for extra security, and the grounds with a garden surrounding the palace.

The main building is the Nimonaru Palace. It is where the shogun resided and has an amazing interior with sliding doors, each of which has a different design.

The Ninomaru Garden is beautiful with a pond surrounded by pine trees around it. The famous cherry blossoms are also found in the garden.

There is a second palace in Nijo Castle called Honmaru Place. Due to the damage it has sustained over the years, visitors aren’t allowed in the castle.

Tourists are, however, free to explore, see the outer wall, and even climb it for a better view.

Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Book your skip-the-line entrance ticket on Klook , which also includes entry to another nearby castle, Ninomaru Palace.

Kyoto is a major cultural city, and Pontocho offers visitors interested in fine dining with an opportunity to try out different Japanese cuisines.

It is located near the Komogawa River with hundreds of restaurants varying from expensive fine dining experiences to affordable yakitori.

To experience the best of Pontocho, ignore the guidebook and explore different restaurants. The best ones are usually smaller and not along the main way. They will probably only have their menus in Japanese.

The trick is to eat at a restaurant that pleases the visitor. On those hot and sunny days, a cool breeze from the Komogawa River may make the experience even better.

If you really love your food but would prefer to do this in style with a local, book yourself into a tour. They’re not cheap, but your tastebuds will thank you forever!

Because of its great cultural and historical significance, the Tenryuji Temple is recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site and is a top attraction in Kyoto.

It is the head temple built by Ashikaga Takauji, a ruling shogun in 1339.

The buildings of the Tenryuji temple may have been lost in fires and wars over the years; the garden remains in its original state, however.

The great garden designer, Muso Soseki, who was also the temple’s first head priest, designed it. The pond in the middle of the ground is surrounded by rocks.

It is also surrounded by pine trees and a forest on the slopes of the Arashiyama Mountains. Seasonal cherry blossoms add charm to the temple in spring.

Built in 778, Otowa-san Kiyomizu Dera Temple is a Buddhist temple that is one of the most popular Kyoto attractions.

People recognise the Kiyomizu Dera Temple by its main hall characterised by a vast wooden terrace overlooking the beautiful city of Kyoto. 

Fun fact: not a single nail was used to construct the 13-meter-high terrace. They used a method called hell frame and used 139 trees in its construction.

Under the main veranda is the Otowa Waterfall with three streams that the locals believe could give a person long life and success in their relationships and academics.

There are many restaurants and gift shops along the streets to Kiyomizu Dera Temple making this one of the best places to explore around Kyoto.

Kiyomizu Dera Temple is located in eastern Kyoto and a 10-minute ride by bus numbers 100 and 206 from Kyoto station

Free Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan

Not everything in the city costs money though! In fact there are some incredible free things to do in Kyoto as well, so you can save your cash for more sushi and sake!

Of all the places to visit in Kyoto, this one is probably the most famous. And aside from the cherry blossoms, the Arashiyama bamboo forest is perhaps the most familiar association with Japan.

The Arashiyama bamboo grove is a glorious bamboo forest, where the shoots rise dozens of metres high and sway gently in the wind.

You have most likely seen the photos of the Arashiyama bamboo forest, as they are very popular on Instagram.

That also means that the grove is absolutely packed throughout the day! Our secret tip is to get there early in the morning before sunrise, as you’ll avoid all the tour buses.

Get to the Arashiyama bamboo grove by taking a train from Kyoto station to Arashiyama station. From there it’s just a 10-minute walk to the entrance of the paths, just follow the signs.

This picturesque destination in Kibune Village is popular for those who are into photography because it is beautiful.

It is also a popular wedding destination and is known for its auspiciousness, especially for newlyweds.

There is a lovely stone staircase with red lanterns on the sides as you approach the main hall of the shrine. Visitors can also drink goshinsui (sacred water) from the mountain in Kibune.

For those who are superstitious, Kifune Shrine is the place to visit as it is where the locals worship Kami, a water deity.

One can buy fortune-telling paper, mizuura mikuji, and then place it in water near the main hall.

After a while, fortune reading regarding a person’s life will appear and eventually fade as the paper stays in the water.

Translations for the fortunes are available using a QR code reader.

Spiritual individuals may decide to take a pilgrimage through the three main areas in Kifure: the main shrine, Yui no Yashiro, and the Okunomiya.

One can get to Kifune by Eizan train as the town is 30 minutes from Kyoto. One can also take a 25-minute walk from Kibuneguchi station. There is also bus number 33 to Kifune.

The Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine is recognized as Kyoto’s most important Shinto shrine as it is the head shrine of the deity Inari.

He is believed to be the patron of prosperity for businesses, traders, and industrialists. He is also the Shinto god of rice and sake.

Located at the foot of Mount Inari, it goes up to 4 kilometers up the mountain with its many sub-shrines.

The shrine has a rich history spanning back to 711 AD, making it one of the oldest landmarks in Kyoto.

Its main entrance to the shrine is the Romon Gate. It was first built in 1589 with the blessing from Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the ruler of Japan and a samurai warlord.

At the back are the Senbon Torii, donated by owners of businesses in Japan hoping for good fortunes. Their names are inscribed in black on the Torii gates, and they cover a hiking trail.

The Fushimi Inari shrine has some fox statues across the ground with some of them having keys in their mouths.

The Japanese believe that foxes are the gods’ messengers and the keys are for the rice granaries they are protecting.

Due to its historical and cultural significance, deservedly so, the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine is on every traveler’s list of what to see in Kyoto. Visit early in the morning to escape the crowds.

For tourists looking to experience authentic Japanese food, one of the best things you can do is check out the busy 5-block long Nishiki Market.

There are approximately 120 stalls, each of which is selling some form of Japanese delicacy. One can also get specialty items that are only locally available in Japan.

Despite how huge it is and the possible language barrier, one of the best things to do in Kyoto is to check out the Nishiki Market.

For those who have no experience with Japanese flavors, try some green tea. Be adventurous as there are many delicacies to choose from.

There are also trendy shops like Konnamonja that offer tofu made ice cream and doughnuts.

All serious traveling gourmets know that the Nishiki market is definitely one of the places to visit in Kyoto!

Book a 4-hour guided walk of Nishiki market where you will be introduced to great food and sake!

It is a mile-long path that the Japanese philosopher, Nishida Kitaro, used when he walked to Kyoto University in the early 20th century.

It is next to the Biwa Canal with cherry blossoms along the path. It takes about an hour to walk across the whole length of the trail.

Visitors can start the path at Ginkaku-ji, heading south along the path until the end of the path in Nanzenji. There are shops, restaurants, and even vending machines along the path although there are no restrooms.

It’s located in the Higashiyama district of northern Kyoto. There are no restrictions as to when one can walk the path. Take bus number 5, 17, or 100 from Kyoto Station to the beginning of the path at Ginkaku-ji.

One of the most notable fashion items from Japanese culture has to be the Kimono. It is a beautiful traditional dress that women still wear to this day.

During festivals and other occasions such as autumn and cherry blossom seasons, one can notice most women are dressed in Kimonos and Yakata.

The best place around Kyoto to see the Kimono styled and worn is the Nishijin textile centre. Here, they offer a kimono fashion parade several times a day.

There is a display of silkworms that produce silk that are used as textiles. There are also weaving demonstrations that explain how they make more complex fabrics and wall hangings.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see a kimono fashion parade, it’s one of our favorites Kyoto tourist attractions.

The locals in Kyoto enjoy themselves by showcasing their rich culture, traditions, and food.

A visitor on a budget with limited things to do in Kyoto may enjoy free festivals and events as they get to interact with the locals and learn more about the Japanese culture.

Such festivals include Aoi, Jidai and Gion festivals, Setsubun, and New Year celebrations among other seasonal events.

The autumn and cherry blossom seasons (Sakura) are famous for festivals.

Many travelers plan their travels during the bloom of the cherry blossoms, it’s an important part of the full Kyoto sightseeing experience.

A great way to experience the traditional Japanese culture is attending a local festival.

Located along Horikawa River, Fushimi is the top sake-brewing district in Japan and one of the best places to visit around Kyoto.

The underground springs provide soft and clean water that is good for brewing sake. Fushimi is located between two rivers with a strategic shipping position.

All these contributed to the growth of the town to a leading sake-brewing district with the popular Gekkeikan Brewery being founded in 1637.

For those wondering what to do in Kyoto, they can take a wooden boat for a sightseeing cruise from Gekkeikan Brewery and the Teradaya Inn up the Uji River for about 55 and 40 minutes respectively.

There are many ways to get to Fushimi, one of which is a 12-minute ride on the JR Nara Line then a 20-minute walk from Momoyama Station.

Because Kyoto is so in touch with its traditional roots, this is one of the best places in Japan to try a tea ceremony.

The traditional Japanese tea ceremony originated in Kyoto, and many locals still practice the ritual today.

Within Kyoto there are a few schools dedicated solely to the tea ceremony. They are casual places that emphasize the relaxation and grace associated with a tea ceremony.

Matcha is most commonly used in a tea ceremony. This finely powdered green tea is whisked into hot water and eventually made into a warm, strong, heartwarming drink.

You can book a 45-minute tea ceremony with an English speaking guide at Urasenke, one of the biggest tea ceremony schools in Kyoto.

Kyoto is a modern and equally traditional city that is magnificent to any tourist that visits it. There are many things to do in Kyoto that will be memorable for years to come.

Whether it be visiting the historic Buddhist temples and shrines or the Manga art museum, or walking among cherry blossoms or a bamboo forest, there is something for everybody. There are expensive options and affordable options for those on a budget.

Kyoto is a must see city that is warm and welcoming to visitors and encourages everyone to have a good time. You can experience traditional Japanese culture and still have all the modern amenities you may need.

Kyoto Travel Guide

In order to help you make the most of all the awesome Kyoto attractions and activities, you need to have somewhere great to use as a base.

That’s why we’ve put together this Kyoto travel guide to help cut out the guesswork.

Where to Stay in Kyoto – The Best Accommodation

If you’re still in the planning stages of your trip and are wondering where to stay in Kyoto, we’ve done the research and are happy to share with you the top 3 accommodations depending on your budget.

For backpackers on a budget, there’s no better place to call home while you’re exploring all the best Kyoto activities than Friends Kyo, right in the Gion district.

They have awesome chilling out areas, including a fantastic rooftop garden and a cool lounge. The dorms are great, clean and cheap. And best of all, they offer free laundry!

It may have a long name, but this is one of the nicest mid-range hotels in all of Kyoto! If you’re looking for super clean, spacious, affordable and with a great location, you can’t beat it.

Free wifi throughout the hotel is available, and there’s a great buffet breakfast served up every morning.

If you’re looking for the absolute best place to rest your head at night, then you can’t beat the Ritz-Carlton in Kyoto.

This hotel was only opened in 2014, making it very new with all the top modern amenities you could ever need, and it’s proudly the first luxury urban resort in all of Japan.

Whether you’re here for business or want to spoil your significant other, this is the place to be seen in Kyoto!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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On our first trip to Japan, Tokyo just didn’t compare to the beauty and tradition of Kyoto, but on our last visit we came to appreciate it for all the fun things to do, diverse neighbourhoods, and fantastic food. We’ll definitely be back.

Well I would love to see those amazing thing myself.

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20 Popular Tourist Attractions in Kyoto – An Overview Per Area

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is always listed among the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. It is a wonderful place to visit, all year round and offers an abundance of things to see and do. Like many of the other bigger cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, it has been through rapid growth as a center of the economy. Many amazing sightseeing spots draw many tourists to the city. Once you open a travel guide in Kyoto, you might get a little confused and feel lost as there are so many places to go and things to do there. In this article, we list Kyoto’s most popular tourist attractions (and some hidden attractions), and tell you more about each area and its’ highlights! But first, let’s start with an introduction to a beautiful city!

About Kyoto

1. kyoto station, 2. kyoto imperial palace & kyoto gyoen, 3. gion district, 4. nijo castle, 5. nishiki market, 6. kinkakuji temple, 7. ryoanji temple, 8. kurama temple and kifune shrine, 9. fushimi inari shrine, 10. tofukuji temple, 11. gekkeikan okura sake museum, 12. kiyomizu-dera temple, 13. sanjusangendo temple, 14. arashiyama bamboo groves, 15. togetsukyo bridge, 16. arashiyama monkey park iwatayama, 17. amanohashidate, 20. yokai street, kimono rental in kyoto, japan wonder travel tours in kyoto, where to stay in kyoto, other articles you may like.

Kyoto (京都, Kyōto) is Japan’s oldest city and served as the nation’s capital and the emperor’s residence for over 1,000 years, from 794 until 1868. Over the centuries, the city has been destroyed by many wars and fires, however, because of its cultural and historical value Kyoto was largely spared by the WWII bombings. It is for this reason that you can still visit many old cultural landmarks and historical sites. And because of the preserved townscape, you will find many people walking around in a beautiful kimono (traditional Japanese clothing) in Kyoto! If you want to try on a kimono and explore the city, you can easily find some kimono rental shops in Kyoto to complete the look to match the historical sites.

Present day, Kyoto is home to about 2,000 temples and shrines such as the Fushimi-Inari Shrine, the Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion), and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Some of Kyoto’s other famous tourist destinations include the Imperial Palace and the Gion district.

Kyoto is often combined with day trips to some of Japan’s famous tourist destinations that are located nearby, including Nara, Kobe, and Hiroshima.

Kyoto station is the city’s main gateway located in the very center of Kyoto. This is where most tourists start their trip in Kyoto as almost all of the public transportation lines depart and arrive here. The station is also known as a huge shopping complex, where you can try local foods and find perfect souvenirs to take home. Around the station, there are several attractive spots that can be seen from the observation deck of Kyoto Tower, which offers an amazing view of the entire city of Kyoto!

For more things to do around Kyoto Station have a read below!

▶Book your Kyoto Tower Observation Deck Admission E-ticket here

Other famous tourist attractions are also accessible by bus or subway. Kyoto Imperial Palace (also known as Kyoto Gosho), one of the most popular historical spots in Kyoto, can be reached by a 10-minute comfortable ride on the subway from Kyoto Station. Kyoto Imperial Palace is the former residence of the imperial family for over 1,000 years. The current building was reconstructed in 1855 after it burned down but the architecture kept the ancient style. It is located in the vast park of Kyoto Gyoen, and you can see the other important historical sites and enjoy beautiful gardens.

Learn all about Kyoto’s Imperial Palace and Kyoto Gyoen in the article below!

Gion district, often described as the geisha district, is the famous entertainment district that is home to many beautiful traditional restaurants and is great for strolling around. For those who want to have a more special experience, you can also visit traditional performances by geisha. It’s not easy to see the geisha’s performance since many of the places don’t allow first-timers. It’s best to book the walking tour including access to meet geisha and maiko who are apprentices of geisha and see their beautiful performance if you are interested in their history, culture, and traditions.

Recommended tour:

Meet a Geisha in Kyoto: Guided Walk in Gion and Enchanted Time with Maiko

Another must-visit spot called Nijo Castle, which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is within walking distance from Kyoto Gyoen. This castle was originally built in 1603 and used as a temporary stay for the shogun when visiting from Tokyo and the lookout for Kyoto Gosho. The big reconstruction had been done with gorgeous paintings on the sliding doors, and it was the event that showed the power of the Edo shogunate throughout Japan. However the prosperity didn’t last forever, the end of the flourishing Edo period, one of the biggest historical events of Japan, happened here in 1867, when the imperial court regained its power once again when the last shogun returned its power to the court. The gorgeous interior and beautiful paintings on the sliding doors can be seen in the main hall, Honmaru Goten. Also, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll around the gardens at the castle site.

If you’re feeling hungry, Nishiki Market is the ideal spot to sample delicious Japanese traditional cuisine amid the unique atmosphere of the small stores lining the lively, narrow street. Located in the central part of Kyoto, it’s easily accessible from the city’s popular tourist attractions. Known as the Kitchen of Kyoto, Nishiki Market offers a variety of foods to try. For instance, Takotamago, a small octopus stuffed with a boiled quail egg, and Yuba, a traditional regional specialty made from tofu skin that forms on the surface of boiled soy milk which has been enjoyed in Kyoto since ancient times. Another Kyoto specialty is Hamo, which is Japanese pike conger eel. Its tempura is especially delicious. With so many shops, it can be hard to decide what to try. But don’t worry, leave it to the local guide and make sure you sample all the best foods that Nishiki Market has to offer!

On this Nishiki Market Food and Drink Tour , you can not only enjoy local food and drink, but also discover where the people of Kyoto shop and eat, learn about the area’s history, and explore both traditional and modern parts of the city.

▼Book our food and drink tour in Nishiki Market! This locally guided tour takes you on a food adventure at Nishiki Market, and then, you will stroll two Geisha districts. One is Pontocho Alley known as a scenic and quaint grummet spot along the most quaint river, Kamogawa, and the other one is Gion District, the biggest Geisha district of Kyoto. Let’s try several Kyoto local foods, sake, and sweets on the tour!

The most prestigious site is Kinkakuji Temple, also known as Golden Pavilion, a Zen Buddhist temple widely known because of its stunning design and appearance covered with gold leaf. You can take a relaxing walk in the Japanese traditional garden around the temple as well. In winter, the magnificent view of the golden temple covered by snow can be seen if you are lucky!

Learn more about the Kinkakuji area below!

Ryoanji Temple is another Zen temple listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a famous rock garden which represents a simple, but important aspect of Japanese culture.

Explore all of the other zen and rock gardens Kyoto has to offer in the article below.

Further north in the mountains, there are two historical sites, Kurama Temple and Kifune Shrine. This area is also known as the best spot to enjoy hiking on the sacred mountain while exploring the spiritual sites in nature. The atmosphere here is different from what you can feel in the city, and the place offers an unforgettable memory! Although it is a bit out of the way, it is definitely worth visiting.

▼Book our Kurama & Kibune Private Trekking Tour! In this private tour, the guide will pick you up at your hotel and take a local train to the sacred mountain of Kurama. While hiking to the top, you will find many shrines and temples the guide will explain. During summer, you can have lunch at a traditional ‘kawadoko’, a riverside restaurant in the Kibune area!

This is probably what most tourists think of when they think of Kyoto. The southern part of Kyoto City has the most popular tourist attraction in Kyoto; the Fushimi Inari Shrine. What makes it so special and popular is the long line of thousands of red torii gates known as Senbon Torii. You have probably seen the iconic red torii gate pictures online or in guidebooks before. And to be honest, this is actually a must-visit spot that is also easily accessible by train from Kyoto station.

Discover everything that Fushimi Inari has in store below.

Besides Fushimi Inari Shrine, there are a number of other tourist spots in the area. Tofukuji Temple is one of them which is known as the best place to see the beautiful view of the colorful leaves in autumn. It’s one of the principal Zen temples in Kyoto and the large temple site includes the Zen garden and the oldest gate of the Zen temples in Japan which is designated as the National Treasure.

It’s a museum about Japanese sake, renovated from the old sake brewery. You can learn the history and process of making sake using a traditional method, but of course, you can taste some sake at the end of the tour! There’s an optional tour to visit the small sake brewery where a fermentation process can be observed through the window.

Sake Spectacular: Museum Tour & Tasting in Fushimi

When it’s your first time in Kyoto, we recommend visiting the famous temples such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple. It’s one of the most popular tourist spots in Kyoto all year round which is always crowded with many tourists. Kiyomizu-dera is located in the middle of the mountain, and its wooden stage of the main hall is so famous that many people visit and see the view over Kyoto City from the stage. On the way up to the temple, you can enjoy some souvenir shopping and have some snacks at the stores lining up on the gentle slope path.

Explore the historic temple to it’s full potential with the article below.

It’s nicknamed a forest of Buddha statues because 1,001 Buddha statues are nestled in the long wooden main hall of the temple. Each face of the statue is slightly different, and it is said that you can find a familiar face in them. The view of the overwhelming number of statues all lining up neatly along the hall is quite an impressive sight.

The Arashiyama area is a popular tourist attraction which is about an hour away from central Kyoto. Compared to other areas in Kyoto City, the area is relatively isolated and a bit outside of the city. However, once you visit there, you will immediately understand this is exactly where everyone should go to experience the real Japan coexisting in harmony with nature. The peaceful bamboo forest is always full of tourists but has a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. If you stop and listen to the sound of the bamboo moving in the wind, you almost forget you are in one of the most popular places in Kyoto!

The Togetsukyo Bridge, a 155-meter-long wooden bridge over the Katsura River, creates a breathtaking view along with the Arashiyama Mountain in the background. It is the landmark of the Arashiyama area, and once you cross over the bridge, you can start exploring the main sightseeing street and spots in Arashiyama.

Arashiyama Monkey Park is home to about 120 wild monkeys. At the observation deck, you can check the view over Mt. Hiei and Kyoto City with the monkeys! There’s a place where you can feed monkeys with some fruits or peanuts through the wire fence, and also there’s a playground for kids.

If you travel further from Kyoto City, you can discover completely different attractions of Kyoto surrounded by beautiful nature. In Northern Kyoto, there are tranquil villages near the ocean providing stunning scenery.

Amanohashidate is a popular spot located in Miyazu Bay, the 3.4 km sandbar covered with 5,000 pine trees across the bay. You can take a pleasant walk across the sandbar or cycling is popular too.

In Ine in Tango peninsula, over 230 boat houses floating in the sea create unique and beautiful scenery. It can only be accessed by sea taxi or ferry. These unique houses were originally built for fishermen, who parked their boats on the first floor and then used the second floor as their residence. Please note that to respect the residents, it’s strongly recommended to take a guided tour if you would like to explore the area.

Uji is a small town located a bit far from central Kyoto City. It is known for its matcha tea and the historical temple. Byodo-in temple is a beautiful temple originally built in the Heian period. Flip the 10 yen coin and you’ll find a picture of it! Uji is also known as their tea field and Uji matcha is one of the high-quality brands of tea.

Learn more about the matcha tea capital of Japan below!

▼Book a one-day tour from Kyoto or Osaka to explore Northern Kyoto Traveling to the countryside of Japan is sometimes a little tricky in terms of the convenience of transportation and lack of English signs. If you are looking for the easiest and most comfortable trip to Northern Kyoto, take a private tour exploring Ine, Amanohashidate, and more beautiful attractions in the area!

Last but not least, there are many unique and mysterious spots in Kyoto. Yokai Street is one of them. Yokai are legendary creatures that appear in folklore. Yokai Street is a shopping street where you can spot some marks of Yokai and is best known for the Yokai parade that is carried out on the second Saturday in October every year. You think it’s similar to the Halloween parade but somehow it’s more beautiful yet scary with hundreds of Yokai walking solemnly on the street. It will get you a chill up and down the spine.

Read more to find 10 Mysterious Spots and Stories in Kyoto

Are you looking to get the full Kyoto experience and dress up in a nice kimono while you’re in the beautiful area? We offer a number of affordable kimono rental plans that are suited for everyone. With shops in both Gion and near Kyoto Tower, and hundreds of different kimono to choose from, you are sure to find something that you like. Check out our plans below and let our staff do the rest!

Book your rental here !

When you are visiting Kyoto and you need some help organizing your trip, you came to the right place. We’re happy to help you make your trip to Kyoto the best trip ever. We can advise you on where to go or even better, show you around with a local, English speaking guide. Let us help you create safe, comfortable, and unforgettable memories in Kyoto!

▶ Kyoto 8h Private Custom Highlight Tour with Licensed Guide On this full-day private tour of Kyoto, you will be able to see the highlights of Kyoto in just one day and at the same time develop a deeper understanding of both the culture of the area and Japan as a whole.

▶ Kyoto Arashiyama Best Spots 4h Private Tour with Licensed Guide If you only have a day or two in Kyoto, we offer a half-day tour combined with must-visit spots in one of the most popular areas in Kyoto – Arashiyama. A knowledgeable bilingual guide will make sure that you can get the full experience in just a half-day!

▶ Explore Nishiki Market: Food & Culture Walk If you’re looking to learn more about the culture and the local cuisine of Kyoto, this is the perfect tour for you! Take part in this Kyoto food and drink tour and explore the 400-year-old market and the famous surrounding areas.

▶ Kimono Experience Kyoto is the best city to explore in kimono, Japanese traditional clothing. You can choose the one you like the most from several patterns and colors at the rental shop. In Kyoto, two locations are both accessible from the main tourist attractions which makes it easy to try it on and explore the city for a day!

By now you have an idea of what to do in the different parts of Kyoto, but then the next question arises. What is the best place to stay in Kyoto? All things considered, we recommend you stay downtown, in or near the Gion or Kawaramachi-Dori districts. These areas are well connected to public transport and central to many of the main attractions. Here you will also find an abundance of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.

• Tazuru – a traditional Japanese ryokan with historic charm, overlooking the Kamo river.
• Kyoto Hotel Okura – luxury hotel offering great views of Kyoto and the Higashiyama Mountains
• Gion Minami House – apartment rooms that also enable you to relax after your full day of sightseeing.

Surrounded by beautiful nature, rich with history, and filled with many interesting and beautiful places, it might be quite a challenge to decide on the best places to go in Kyoto. The former imperial and political capital of Japan has so many options and attractive places to choose from. We hope with this article you got some helpful information and that you now have an idea of where you want to go!

Find out the top 10 tours in Kyoto▼

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20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kyoto! Find information on tours, accommodations, and must-see sights popular among overseas visitors (2022).

23 Mar 2022

The KANSAI Guide

Kyoto is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Japan. It has a plethora of well-known scenic spots and cultural activities for you to enjoy. But why not make your visit extra special by trying out unique vacation ideas? Go tea picking, make ceramic pottery, and stay overnight at an old traditional home. This page offers information on Kyoto City as well as Kyotango City in the far north and the rest of Kyoto prefecture. Tourists who have only had an experience of visiting Kyoto City will get to have new experiences. Come to Kyoto as part of your solo trip to treat yourself, or as a date to make romantic memories. And of course, you’re always welcome to come for a simple visit to create exciting memories with someone dear. Top-rated attractions in Kyoto Prefecture have been carefully selected to make your trip to Kyoto unforgettable.

1. Maizuru City: Buddha Dance at Matsunoo Temple

Buddha dance (hotokenomai) is performed once a year. etch the art of its traditional performance in your memory..

Matsunoo Temple is located on the slopes of Mt. Aoba, also known as Wakasa Fuji. The famous Buddha Dance (Hotokemai) is a nationally important intangible folk cultural property. It celebrates the birth of Buddha and is annually dedicated on the eighth day of Uzuki (the fourth month of the lunar calendar), which currently falls on May 8th. Buddha Dance is performed by six dancers. Three kinds of Buddhas are featured, and two dancers each represent one of the Buddhas (Shakyamuni Buddha, Dainichi Buddha, and Amida Buddha). They dance to music played on the traditional Japanese Hichiriki flute and Ryuteki flute. This traditional dance was passed down from the continent, and its existence in Matsu no Odera Temple can be traced back to the early Edo Period. Buddha Dance gives the audience a glimpse into court music and dance that no longer exist, and the sight of dancers gracefully moving to unique rhythm with their mysterious charm will fascinate visitors and captivate their attention. Come to Kyoto and see this valuable traditional art that is only performed once a year.

2. Ine Town: Boat Houses of Ine Town

The sight of boat houses on the sea will look like a scene from a different world. dynamic mondori-style fishing tour is an experience that can’t be missed.

The cluster of boat houses in Ine Town looks as if they’re floating on the sea. Nearly 300,000 tourists visit here every year to see this important preservation district of historic buildings that is well known both domestically and internationally. Boat houses, called Funaya, are buildings constructed to protect boats from wind, rain, and insects. In the past, wooden boats were used for fishing. They were stored on the first floor of the Funaya structure, while the second floor was used to dry fishing nets and store fishing gear. Ine Town has several tours that give visitors an opportunity to experience a life in Funaya. One of the popular tours, “The Complete Ine Town Experience with a Funaya Guide,” features Mondori-style fishing that uses fish bones and skin as bait. In that tour, visitors will get a first-hand look at this dynamic Mondori-style fishing. They will get a chance to pull up a rope attached to a huge basket from the bottom of the sea to be delightfully surprised by a sight of fish splashing on the inside. The tour includes a stroll through the Funaya neighborhood, a stop at a famous local sake brewery founded in 1754, and an enjoyable experience of life in Ine Town.

3. Yosano Town: KUSKA Handweaving Workshop

Enjoy touring the handweaving workshop and shopping for renewed traditional crafts..

Tango in Kyoto is famous for Tango Chirimen textiles and is the largest production center of handwoven silk in Japan. KUSKA values and sticks to manual production from thread making to dyeing and handweaving. The workshop mainly offers products that fuse values of tradition, fashion, and art that are not swayed by fast-moving trends. KUSKA creates neckties, scarves, and other fashion accessories reminiscent of the traditional craft of Tango Chirimen textiles. Visitors are welcomed to observe artisans at work in their workshop next to the store. Many tourists from overseas visit to see the skill of artisans in Japan with their own eyes. A handweaving course is also available at the workshop for you to try and make your own souvenir to take home (fee required). *The handweaving course is temporarily closed as of March 2022. It’s scheduled to reopen in the future.

4. Nantan City: Miyama Kayabuki-no-Sato

Like a scene from folktales with thatched-roof houses, miyama is a city with a feel of traditional japanese town..

Miyama Town in Nantan City is located in the approximate center of Kyoto. In the north of the settlement is an area called Kayabuki-no-Sato with 39 thatched-roof houses that offer a nostalgic view of the Japanese countryside. In 1993, this settlement was designated as an important preservation district of historic buildings for exemplifying reverence for the original landscape of Japan. Here, nature changes its colors every season—pink cherry blossoms in spring, fresh green leaves in summer, yellow and red foliage in fall, and white snow-covered landscape in winter. In addition to enjoying the beautiful landscape of Miyama Town, visitors can also visit Miyama Folklore Museum in the settlement for a tour of a thatched-roof house. The Little Indigo Museum features an exhibition of rare indigo items collected from around the world. If you’re curious about a life in traditional Japan, you can even enjoy an overnight stay at a private home. Miyama Town is perfect for those who want to replace the hustle and bustle of city with a peaceful stroll through old Miyama streets to relax their mind and soul.

5. Kameoka City: Shoraku Kiln

Enjoy making pottery at a kiln with traditional style loved by sen no rikyu..

Shorakugama is a kiln with a history of some 120 years. This kiln specializes in creating Rakuyaki (tea cups used in tea ceremonies). Sen No Rikyu, a man who greatly influenced tea ceremony, called this style of cup the zenith of aesthetic form. One unique feature of Rakuyaki is in its creation process. Rakuyaki tea cups are shaped and molded by hand without using a potter’s wheel. Because the cup is made by hand, its uniqueness is enhanced by any slight distortion that occurs in the creation process. Shoraku Kiln provides a course that allows visitors to make a Black Rakuyaki tea cup for Matcha tea using a hand-molding technique. Participants can enjoy Matcha tea and Japanese sweets as well as learn tea manners and the history of tea cups. There’s even an option for you to send the tea cup that you made to any location in Japan and overseas. Immerse yourself in the Rakuyaki art through the half-day course on making tea cups.

6. Kyoto City: Toei Kyoto Studio Park

Uzumasa, kyoto – the birthplace of japanese movies..

When you come to Kyoto, you must visit the interactive theme park devoted to Japanese movies. At Toei Kyoto Studio Park , you will be able to see a huge outdoor set of Edo-era Japan where the movie “Rurouni Kenshin” was filmed. Ninja and samurai shows take place every day. Visitors can dress up as ninjas, learn ninja skills, and enjoy other hands-on courses. “3D Maze – The Ninja Fort” is a popular attraction that you can’t miss. The three-story indoor maze has exciting ninja traps that will have both children and adults enthralled. After enjoying all the fun attractions, visitors can find refreshments at one of the cafés or restaurants scattered throughout the park for a snack or meal. Spend the full day at Studio Park and immerse yourself in the world of movie-making and Edo-era. Other events featuring themes from popular games and animation are also held, so we encourage you to check our current events before visiting the Park.

7. Wazuka Town: Kyoto Obubu Tea Farm Tour

Immerse yourself in an exciting day of a tea-picking girl in wazuka, the homeland of tea in kyoto♪.

Wazuka Town has approximately 800-years of history as a center of Uji tea production. The scenery of tea plantations surrounded by mountains and a gentle river flowing in the middle of the valley will bring back nostalgic memories in your mind. Kyoto Obubu Tea Farm offers tours throughout the year with the hope of spreading the rich appeal of Japanese tea. The tour will take you through their tea farm and tea factory and offers tea tasting session and a lesson on making tea. The popular tea-picking activity is offered in spring, summer, and autumn. Another popular hands-on activity is hand-rolling hand-picked tea leaves. Limited number of tea-picking girl costumes are available for rent. A picture of you dressed up as a tea-picking girl on the tea farm will make a wonderful souvenir.

8. Uji City: The Tale of Genji Museum

The only museum in the world recreating the tale of genji. don’t forget to check out the museum’s original works..

The Tale of Genji is the oldest full-length novel in the world, and Uji was the stage of the final ten chapters of this novel. The Tale of Genji Museum is an irresistible place for Genji fans for its recreation of the world of Hikaru Genji. The museum has a display of a model of Rokujo-in (Hikaru Genji’s residence) and a full-sized reconstructed oxcart, as well as a collection of over 4,500 books. Original films based on “The Ten Uji Chapters” and animated movies are aired, allowing visitors to learn about The Tale of Genji. Information on some of the exhibitions is available in several languages in audio tablet guides for overseas visitors (*temporarily unavailable as of March 2022). The Tale of Genji is a novel that has been loved for over a thousand years since its creation. Even those that are not familiar with the story will no doubt be pulled into its flamboyant world when they step into this museum.

9. Uji City: Manpuku-ji Temple

Architectural beauty of a rare zen buddhist temple with delicious vegetarian cuisine..

Manpuku-ji is an Obaku sect temple, which is one of Japan’s three major Zen sects. It was opened in 1661 by a Chinese Zen monk, Ingen Ryuki. This temple is constructed in the architectural style of Chinese Ming dynasty and stands with an air of dignity as if projecting Buddha dwelling in the mountain of Uji. Some of its interesting features include unique construction methods that are not usually seen in temples in Japan. A design called “Manji Kuzushi” is found in front of the lecture hall, and an arched “Obaku ceiling” is also featured famous for its inspiration from the shape of a dragon’s stomach. Some of the exhibits’ audio guides are available in English to help overseas visitors deepen their understanding of Manpuku-ji Temple’s history. This temple is also unique in offering special cuisines like Chinese-style vegetarian menu called “Fucha” (reservation required). “Aoi” set meal is also offered to two groups each day (8,888 yen per person), and it includes a tour of the premises led by a Buddhist monk as a guide. Enjoy a relaxing time in this solemn atmosphere with food that conveys the taste of season and culture.

10. Kameoka City: Yunohana Onsen

Healing retreat in the serene atmosphere of a mountain village deep in kyoto..

Yunohana Onsen is a hot spring village located in a quiet mountain ravine approximately 7 kilometers from the center of Kameoka City, Kyoto. This village has legends of warlords journeying here to heal their sword wounds in the Warring State Period. The water here consists of natural radium that is effective for neuralgia, muscular aches, fatigue, and more. Hot water will feel smooth on the skin, and hot springs of the finest quality will allow visitors to relax from deep within their core. Visitors can come for the day to enjoy bathing in the hot spring, or they can stay overnight at one of the many ryokans (inns) that serve wonderful seasonal dishes featuring natural seasonal ingredients connecting with mother nature: wild plants in spring, sweetfish in summer, matsutake mushrooms in autumn, and local sake and boar stew in winter. Take a healing journey to Kyoto to enjoy clear air, breathtaking mountain valleys, finest hot springs, and delicious seasonal dishes that will satisfy all five senses.

11. Kyotango City: Tateiwa Rock Formation

Giant rock carved by nature over millions of years get your picture taken with this rugged natural phenomenon in the background..

Tateiwa is the symbol of Nochigahama Beach . Tateiwa is a rock bed formed by cooled magma that erupted from underground 15 million years ago. Its naturally-formed rough surface has been exposed to wind, rain, and waves through its long history. It stands approximately 20 meters high and gives its observers an imposing bizarre look from afar. According to legends, one of the three demons defeated by Shotoku Taishi’s younger brother, Imperial Prince Maroko, was sealed in this stone. It is said that you can hear the demon howling in winter and on rough days even today. The best place to see this ruggedly majestic Tateiwa is at a location slightly far away from it with the ocean in the background. It stands out in stark contrast to the deep blue color of the Sea of Japan. A picture of you with Tateiwa and the Sea of Japan in the background will become a photo to treasure.

12. Fukuchiyama City: Fukuchiyama Castle

Fukuchiyama castle—the symbol of north kyoto. enjoy the panoramic view of fukuchiyama city from the only castle tower that you can go up in kyoto..

Fukuchiyama Castle was built by Akechi Mitsuhide in 1579. It is the only castle in the North Kinki area with an extant castle tower. It is also the only castle in Kyoto where visitors can enter and still go up to the top. The highest point of the castle is the 4th level of its tower. From there, visitors can get a panoramic view of the mountains standing in the distance and the city streets of Fukuchiyama lying below. Another noteworthy feature is the stone wall that serves as the foundation of the castle. Gorinto towers, gravestones, stone mortars, and other stonework that can be found in this wall are also historic. Some of these have been in existence in the same location since the castle was built over 400 years ago. The castle can also be enjoyed for its entirely different look depending on the angle and the location of the observer. Additionally, the castle’s atmosphere changes completely with each season. The view of the snow-covered Fukuchiyama Castle is especially magnificent in the wintertime. The beauty of the castle will be a lifelong memory that you will treasure.

13.Around Kyoto City: Sagano Trolley

Arashiyama is famous for its sagano trolley take a trolley ride and enjoy kyoto’s nature to your heart’s content..

One can say that Arashiyama is one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Kyoto. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of Arashiyama from one of the few trolley trains left in Japan. Sagano Trolley runs between Arashiyama and Kameoka in the suburbs of Kyoto City. This 7.3 km distance will take approximately 25 minutes (one way) during which you are treated to the beautiful sight of Hozu Gorge and a panoramic view of the great natural expanse from trolley windows. You may even chance upon scenic or hidden spots that you can’t see when traveling on foot or in a car. Visitors will be welcomed by cherry blossoms in spring, fresh green in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and other beautiful natural sights each season. A travel package combining Hozu River Boat Ride that travels down a 16 km mountain river is also popular. If you would like to enjoy both the trolley ride and the boat ride, be sure to check out this deal.

14.Miyazu City: Amanohashidate

One of the nihon sankei (three most scenic spots) in japan turn your back, bend over, and look between your legs for the traditional way to take in the amazing view of kyoto by the sea..

Located in the northern region of Kyoto Prefecture, Amanohashidate is one of the Three Most Scenic Spots in Japan. Some 6,700 pine trees grow on a sandbar that extends for approximately 3.6 km. This uniquely shaped terrain resembles a bridge leading to heaven, and this distinctive sight became the origin of its name “Amanohashidate” (bridge to heaven). There are many activities here for you to enjoy like walking or cycling along rows of pine trees, cruising on a sightseeing boat, bathing in Onsen hot springs, and swimming in the sea. One of the top recommendations is for you to go see the view from our four observatories located around Amanohashidate. Two of the observatories are especially famous: Amanohashidate View Land and Kasamatsu Park. Here, visitors can turn their back to the view, bend over, and look between their legs to have a view of Amanohashidate climbing up through the sky like a dragon. The beauty of Amanohashidate that looks as though it’s floating on the sea combined with its surrounding mountains and townscape will stay in your memory for a lifetime.

15.Kyotango City: Amino Shrine　

A shrine that houses the god of sericulture and tango chirimen textiles in kyotango, the production center of silk fabric..

Amino Shrine is located in Amino Town of Kyotango City, Kyoto. It is a prestigious shrine with eight wings, and the main hall is registered as national tangible cultural property. Koori Shrine located in the shrine precinct is especially famous, and it once served as the main hall. It is also one of the components of Japan’s Heritage Site, “Tango Chirimen Textile Road, A 300-Year History of Weaving Silk Crepe Textiles.” This Shrine serves as a sacred space that enshrines the god of sericulture and Tango Chirimen Textiles. Visitors can immerse themselves in this unique atmosphere enriched with 300 years of history and textile culture. Three gods are enshrined here, and Urashima legend was based on Mizunoe Urashimako-no-kami, one of these gods. The shrine is also known to offer “Tokowaka” (eternal youthful spirit), and popular souvenir is Tango Chirimen amulet bag with omikuji (fortune-telling slip).Why not buy one yourself as a keepsake.

16.Kyotango City: Miso-Making Workshop

Experience the world of yeast through miso-making at a workshop featuring japanese food culture..

Miso soup is deeply rooted in Japanese food culture. It’s no exaggeration to say that miso soup is Japan’s regional cuisine. Tourists can take a course on making miso for miso soup at a unique workshop called “tabel table” in Kyotango City. This course will take approximately four hours. It includes a section on hands-on miso-making, but also a section on tasting various malted rice products like miso and soy sauce. After making miso, a healthy lunch made with local ingredients is served to allow participants to further deepen their understanding of Japanese food culture. Miso-making workshops are only open for four months, from November to March. A tour of miso factory is also available for those wanting to know more about malted rice. Take this opportunity and use your five senses to learn about traditional Japanese food culture.

17. Nantan City: Miyama FUTON & Breakfast

Experience life in a satoyama woodland in a rented thatched-roof house..

Miyama FUTON & Breakfast (Miyama F&B) has four thatched-roof houses for rent. Visitors can rent the entire traditional house to experience a life of luxury in Satoyama woodland. Each of the four houses has its own unique features, such as a house with a bar and a house with an expansive lawn. Our top recommendation is the house that has been nationally registered as a tangible cultural property. In this thatched-roof house, you will find a huge hearth in the center where you and your friends can gather and enjoy pot dishes and charcoal-grilled food. Don’t forget to take a look in the attic to see the inside of this historic thatched roof. Visitors can savor their time by relaxing on the sofa and listening to music on the audio system that has been installed. No matter how you choose to spend your time, the time spent in Miyama F&B will be extraordinary and memorable. It’s perfect for couples, three-generation families, and a large group of friends.

18.Yawata City: Shokado Garden

Join a tranquil tea ceremony in kyoto renowned for its tea, and stroll through our japanese garden immersing yourself in the traditions of japanese culture..

Shokado Garden covers a vast expanse of nature stretching 22,000m2 in Yawata City, Kyoto. This Garden has been designated as a national scenic spot, and visitors can walk along the stone-paved paths to thoroughly feel and view the aesthetic scenery decorated with Suikinkutsu (buried earthenware jar that creates a pleasant sound of water drops). There are plum trees, cherry trees, green maples, a bamboo grove, colorful foliage, and other seasonal flowers and trees. You will also find a pond with colorful carp, and you will feel the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi expressed through ornamental objects like splendid stone lanterns and others. Tea ceremonies are held on Sundays, from March to May and from October to November. Beginners are also welcomed to experience Kyoto’s tea ceremony culture. The colorful scenery that you can enjoy from the tea room will surely enhance the gracefulness of your tea time.

19.Kyotango City: Cooking Class: Seko Crab Bowl with Taiza Crab

Make seko crab bowl with taiza crab and use your five senses to experience kyoto by the sea.

Taiza is one of the best crab fisheries in Japan. Totoya is a local inn that offers delicious menus loved through generations. Tourists can enroll in its cooking class to make a popular fishermen’s dish called Seko crab bowl. This class is only offered during Taiza’s Seko crab fishing season, which starts from November 6th and runs through December. Female Seko crabs that are used for this dish are small, but they are famous for their rich crab miso and plump-textured meat. The dish is completed when Seko crabs boiled in Kotobikihama salt water and Kyotango’s mizuna (Japanese mustard greens) are generously topped on a bed of rice. The crab meat has just the right amount of sweetness. The combination of this meat with the rich flavor of crab’s inner and outer eggs topped with sparkling eggs will be a treat for your taste buds. Don’t miss out on this fresh seasonal dish that can only be truly enjoyed by those that cook and eat in the location where its ingredients are gathered.

20.Nagaokakyo City: Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine

Visit to see the flowers of kyoto and take a casual stroll through nagaoka tenmangu shrine famous for azalea and plum flowers..

Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine is devoted to the worship of Sugawara Michizane, the god of learning. This shrine is also known for its beautiful flowers that color various areas of the premises each season. Kirishima azaleas are particularly famous. Azalea trees aged 170 years come into full bloom around mid- to late April. Crimson walls of azaleas that bloom along the path from the torii gate to the shrine are also breathtaking. Crimson flowers beautifully decorate the vermilion-lacquered shrine in perfect harmony. and cherry blossoms arching over the pathway along the east bank of Hachijyo-ga-ike pond in the eastern area of the precinct are spectacular as well. Cherry blossoms reflected on the pond will emit a magical feel and captivate visitors. Take a stroll to enjoy plum blossoms, hydrangea, lotus, iris, rabbit-ear iris, and colorful foliage that repaint the landscape season by season. Feel the change in seasons with these beautiful and magnificent flowers.

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The Kyoto checklist: 15 things you absolutely must do in Kyoto

Kyoto is easily one of the most FOMO-inducing cities in the world. Packed with so much to see/do/taste/try/fall in love with, you might be unsure of what should be on your Kyoto-do list. That’s why we’ve done it for you! Here are the  15 things you absolutely must do in Kyoto  in order to get the ‘full experience’ and keep those nasty feelings of missing out safely at bay.

1. Explore a world of temples

There are more than 1600 temples in Kyoto. 

Sixteen. Hundred. That means if you visited a different temple every day of the year for four years, you  still  wouldn’t have seen every temple in Kyoto. For the time poor, there are a handful of famous Kyoto temples that you need to visit (particularly first-timers), with each one bringing something entirely unique to the table. We suggest ticking off one or two of these:

• Daigoji:   The temple’s five-storey pagoda is the oldest surviving structure in Kyoto.
• Kiyomizudera :  One of the most iconic temples with a beautiful panoramic view of Kyoto (note: the main hall is undergoing renovations until March 2020, but visitors can still enter)
• Ginkakuji   (‘Silver Pavilion’) :  Once a shogun’s retirement villa, now a classic Zen temple
• Kinkakuji (‘Golden Pavilion’):  A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf
• Tofukuji :  See the oldest Zen gate in the country
• Ryoanji :  Draw inspiration from the world-famous rock gardens
• Tenryuji :  The temple boasts one of the  finest examples of traditional Japanese garden design
• Honen-in:  A tranquil temple covered in moss and mystery
• Eikando (aka Zenrinji) :  The temple is famous for brilliant foliage in the fall

2. Stroll through Shinto shrines

Meaning “the way of the gods”, Shinto is Japan’s oldest religion and lives on in over 400 Shinto shrines across Kyoto. Again, there’s a lot of them, so make sure you leave room to wander through at least one of the following:

• Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine :  One of Kyoto’s most prominent and popular attractions
• Heian-jingu Shrine :  An iconic symbol of Kyoto with its towering red torii gate
• Yasaka-jinja Shrine :  Buzzing with energy and home to the Gion Matsuri (festival)
• Kifune-jingu Shrine :  A retreat nestled in a quaint village in the northern mountains of Kyoto

Kitano-tenmangu Shrine:  One of the most famous plum blossom viewing spots in Kyoto, this shrine holds an annual plum blossom festival in February

3. Join a ‘zazen’ meditation session at a Buddhist temple

Practice mindfulness by joining a zazen  meditation session  at one of Kyoto’s many Buddhist temples.

Typically catering to groups, you’ll be guided through the basic techniques of Zen Buddhist meditation, its history and how to incorporate it into your everyday practice.

Kyoto has an abundance of temples that offer meditation courses as well as lodging e.g. Shunkoin or  Myoshinji Temple , with many offering English sessions. Reservations are often required, so be sure to plan your journey to self-realisation in advance!

4. Get bamboozled by Arashiyama

One of Kyoto’s most iconic and insta-famous attractions, the  Arashiyama Bamboo Grove  truly is a sight to behold. Located in the Sagano area of western Kyoto (a 20 minute train ride from JR Kyoto Station), the bending walk through the vibrant, emerald green bamboo forest is a short, immersive experience that transports you to another world. (Hot tip: the experience is most stunning if you approach from the side gate of  Tenryuji Temple .) If you happen to be here in December, be sure to catch the winter illumination event, Hanatoro, which involves thousands of lanterns lighting up the night throughout the Arashiyama area.

For a non-touristy experience, consider visiting Otokuni Bamboo Grove in Muko City (a 10 minute train ride to Mukomachi Station from JR Kyoto Station, followed by a 10 minute taxi ride), a 1.8km forest path lined with eight kinds of bamboo hedges.

5. Meet a geisha in Kyoto

The geisha of Kyoto (known locally as ‘geiko’) live and work in one of five ‘kagai’ (‘Flower Town’) neighbourhoods where they sing, dance and entertain clientele in exclusive teahouses. Stroll through the oh-so-charming streets of Gion or Pontocho at dusk and you may be lucky enough to spot maiko—geiko in training, as they make their way to an appointment.  

The most authentic way to get up and personal with a maiko or geiko is at a teahouse or ryokan, which can be arranged by a tour operator and high-end hotels. Or head straight to  Gion Corner  at Yasaka Hall to watch daily maiko dances and enjoy six other traditional performing arts including tea ceremony, koto (six-stringed zither), gakaku (court music) and kyogen (short-form theatre).

6. Don a kimono in Higashiyama

What better way to explore the traditional district of Higashiyama than in an authentic kimono! Neighbouring Gion, Higashiyama has plenty of rental shops (many with English websites) that will properly fit you with a beautiful kimono or yukata of your choosing. Male kimono are also available! The best place to take your kimono for a spin? Take a stroll down by the canal along the  Philosopher’s Path , one of Kyoto’s most scenic city walks. The path also conveniently connects many of the temples and shrines listed above.

7. Craft your own Kyo-Yuzen keepsake

Invented in the late 17th century, Kyo-Yuzen is a traditional Kyoto dyeing technique used to bring textiles to life (like that kimono you’ll be donning). 

If you want to try your hand at the ancient craft, workshops are dotted over the city that give you the opportunity to learn about the intricate dyeing process and create your own Kyo-Yuzen memento to take home to show off. Workshops usually run for an hour or so, making them perfect for slotting between other must-dos!

8. Visit the Kyoto International Manga Anime Fair and the Kyoto International Manga Museum

If you’re a fan of anime, manga and cosplay, head to the Kyoto International Manga Anime Fair, an event held over two days in September each year. Featuring shops, exhibition booths, a character café, cosplay show, workshops and more, the event aims to promote anime and manga culture to the world and connect budding creators with companies.

At the Kyoto International Manga Museum you can choose from 50,000 volumes of manga to read, see original artwork, and attend a workshop to learn how to create your own manga. The museum is open year-round except for Wednesdays, the New Year’s holiday and maintenance periods.

9. Sip on Sake in Fushimi Sake District

While many travellers include a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine on their itinerary, it’s a little known fact that Fushimi is one of Japan’s most famous sake-producing areas.

Fushimi is blessed with abundant spring water containing the perfect balance of potassium and calcium – ideal for creating delicious sake.

Take a scenic canal boat ride on jikkokubune, flat-bottomed boats that once transported sake and rice to the old Fushimi river port. Visit the Sake Café Fushimi Yume Hakushu to taste different kinds of sake made by local breweries or head to Sake Bar Aburacho to sample premium Ginjo-shu from over 80 varieties.

10. Visit Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

Climb up Mt. Iwatayama to see around 120 Japanese macaques in the wild at Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. A 20-minute walk from the park entrance takes you to the mountain’s summit and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over Kyoto city. There’s a feeding area for monkeys here too (for a change, visitors enter a caged hut and feed the free-roaming monkeys outside through the fencing), and a playground for children. The area is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vivid autumn colours.

11. Munch down Michelin-stars

Kyoto is the 3rd most Michelin-starred city in the world. (Tokyo and Paris take 1st and second place, respectively). From traditional Kyoto-style  kaiseki  to sushi to French cuisine, the city of Kyoto is a gastronomical nirvana. What makes things even more exciting is that many of the starred establishments are very budget friendly, especially if you visit during lunchtime. If you’ve always wanted to go to a Michelin-starred restaurant, Kyoto is your chance to do it.

12. Experience ‘kawadoko’, Kyoto style al fresco dining

During the warmer months (typically May through September), some restaurants set up decks over or next to rivers and waterfalls so you can enjoy a meal while the flowing water beneath you keeps you cool. 

Well-known areas to try kawadoko include the village of Kibune in the northern mountains of Kyoto and along the Kamogawa River, the city’s main waterway.

After dinner, take a stroll along the riverbank, beautifully illuminated by lanterns and streetlights.

13. Explore Nishiki Market, the kitchen of Kyoto

No trip to Kyoto is complete without strolling through Nishiki Market, stretched along a 400m path from Teramachi to Takakura. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the market sells everything from pickles and preserves to kitchen knives. Samples are always on offer, so go hungry! 

Local specialities include ‘yuba’ (tofu skin) and soy milk doughnuts. The best time to visit is around 10am in the morning.

14. Stay the night in machiya, a traditional townhouse

Machiya  are the traditional townhouses that line the busy streets of Kyoto. Many of the narrow wooden homes have been restored and preserved, and open their doors to travellers looking for a one-of-a-kind stay unique to Kyoto. 

Machiya are popular accommodation options in Kyoto so be sure to book ahead, especially during peak season or dates that align with festivals and big events.

15. Attend Kyoto’s biggest festival

The legendary  Gion Matsuri  transforms the entire city into a massive party in the summer! There are many different events, however the grand procession of giant floats (Yamaboko Junko) held on 17 and 24 July is the main event not to miss. Taking place over the entire month of July, make sure you book your ryokan, Machiya or hotel well, well, well in advance. 

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23 Top Tourist Attractions in Kyoto, Japan

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Widely considered to be Japan’s most beautiful city, charming Kyoto really is a delight to explore. Besides boasting over 2,000 Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, it has tons of picturesque gardens, palaces and viewpoints to enjoy.

For well over a thousand years, it served as the country’s capital until the emperor relocated to Tokyo following the Meiji Restoration. While fires, wars and earthquakes ravaged Kyoto from time to time, it still retains much of its rich history. As such, many attractive old buildings and atmospheric streets can be found alongside its more modern center.

Aside from its incredible art and architecture, the city is also set in a scenic spot amidst mountains and forests. Its enchanting temples also have lots of lovely Zen gardens to amble around while gaily dressed geishas can still be spotted in the historic Gion District.

With such a rich culture and cuisine to uncover and so many fascinating things to do in Kyoto, it is definitely one of Japan’s most rewarding destinations. On your next trip to this ancient city, plan to see as many of these top tourist attractions in Kyoto as your schedule will allow.

23. Kenninji Temple

Even though it is the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, Kenninji sees substantially fewer visitors than many of its neighbors. This makes its quiet complex on the south side of Gion even more special to stroll around as you almost have all its artistic treasures and architecture to yourself.

Located not far from the historic Hanamikoji Street and the stunning Yasaka Shrine, it was founded back in 1202. The main temple of its branch of Rinzai Buddhism, it has an exquisite sanmon gate, Dharma Hall and Abbot’s Quarters to admire, all erected centuries ago. Inside too, there is a dramatic ceiling painting of twin dragons to take in alongside finely-detailed murals and folding screens.

Its gorgeous grounds contain a traditional Zen garden with tea ceremonies also being held here from time to time. We were very surprised that the temple was almost deserted when we visited but were very glad it was thanks to the serene ambience around the place.

22. Monkey Park Iwatayama

After seeing so many temples and historic sights around town, hiking up to Monkey Park Iwatayama makes for a fun change. Home to roughly 120 Japanese macaques, its lush site is perched atop Mt. Arashiyama and offers spellbinding views over all of Kyoto.

Situated just across Togetsukyo Bridge from the terrific Tenryu-ji Temple, the park was established in 1957 to protect the colony of cute snow monkeys that inhabit the area. Free to come and go as they please, the mischievous creatures play, feed and groom themselves right before you.

Whenever you visit, scores of them are sitting or scampering about the observation deck or swinging in the surrounding trees. Observing them up close and feeding them is an amazing experience – just don’t make eye contact or provoke them by accident!

Bear in mind too it is a steepish, twenty-minute climb uphill to the monkey park.

21. Kyoto Station Building

In contrast to all its ancient temples, the colossal Kyoto Station is one of its most distinctive modern buildings. Besides being an important train and transportation hub, it showcases some extraordinary architecture and has tons of amenities to make use of.

Actually the second-largest station in the whole country, it encompasses not just an immense Isetan department store and shopping mall but a hotel, movie theater and many restaurants too. Unveiled in 1997, its sparkling high-rise has fifteen stories for commuters, locals and tourists to explore. As well as a vast, futuristic facade, there is a mesmerizing multi-level LED-lit staircase to snap photos of.

Other than ogling at its sheer size and scale, you can shop until you drop or try some of its excellent eateries. After ambling about its cavernous interior, we particularly enjoyed heading up to its relaxing rooftop garden. A welcome escape from the hustle and bustle below, it provides some great views of the city from up high.

20. Samurai and Ninja Museum

If you’re looking to wield swords, throw shuriken and wear suits of armor, then you’ve come to the right place! At the superb Samurai and Ninja Museum, there are all kinds of fun interactive activities to try while learning a bit about the history and traditions of the two professions.

Set alongside the teeming Nishiki Market, the museum displays loads of cool old swords and sets of armor. Friendly guides explain each item before delving more into the fascinating hierarchy, culture and lifestyles of both peasants and nobles back in feudal Japan. Afterwards, you can dress in either armor or ninja outfits and hone your sword-fighting and blade-throwing skills.

While it is quite small and super touristy, their samurai and ninja experiences promise to be some of the best fun you’ve had in ages! You’ll also take some of your best and most memorable photos here from your time in Japan.

19. Sanzen-in Temple

Although it is nestled roughly an hour’s public transport journey north of Kyoto, the scenic Sanzen-in Temple is definitely worth visiting if you have the chance. Part of the tiny Ohara town, it is known for its peaceful atmosphere, amusing stone statues and tasty matcha tea.

Tucked away amidst towering trees, the venerable Buddhist temple remarkably dates to 784 CE with pretty gardens and walking paths lying all around it. Coating the forest floor is a marvelous carpet of moss through which smiling stone statues poke their heads. At their centre is a delightful old hall to see, built in 1143. This holds a statue of the Amida Buddha; Sanzen-in’s most important treasure.

An oasis of peace and calm, the temple is a treat to visit at any time of year. While the winter’s snow does somewhat hide its finest features, its white landscapes make for an enchanting atmosphere. In summer, its blooming hydrangeas create an explosion of color while autumn’s fiery foliage is just as spectacular to photo.

18. Toji Temple

Also famed for its striking seasonal colors is the historic Toji Temple on the northwestern outskirts of the city. Asides from wandering about its landscaped gardens, you can gaze up at its phenomenal five-storied pagoda; the tallest in Japan.

Although the temple was founded in 796, its halls, gates and pagoda have all been rebuilt numerous times over the centuries. Now the main place of worship for the Shingon sect of Buddhism, it houses countless fine statues, paintings and carvings. Towering over everything is its 54 meter-high pagoda; one of the complex’s standout sights.

Perfectly complementing its fantastic collection of art and architecture are the magnificent gardens all around them. After strolling along its picturesque paths and seeing all the statues of the Ashikaga Shoguns, enjoy a calming tea in its traditional tatami room.

Surprisingly overlooked by tourists, it was again one of our favourite stops due to its relaxed feel and resplendent scenery. Toji also apparently hosts a monthly market where hundreds of vendors sell arts and crafts, kimonos, food and more.

17. Hike from Kibune to Kurama

A wonderful way to see even more of the region and really immerse yourself in nature is to hike from Kibune to Kurama. Taking around half a day in total, the popular route passes through forests and alongside rivers, stopping off at temples, shrines and hot springs on the way.

Hidden away in the Kitayama Mountains, about half-an-hour’s train ride from Kyoto, are the adorable towns of Kibune and Kurama. Connecting the two together is a seven-kilometer-long trail up over the mountains, through atmospheric-old growth forest. This sees you follow lovely lantern-lined paths to small shrines and sanctuaries with nature spots and viewpoints also dotted about.

At either end, you can visit Kifune Shrine and Kurama-dera Temple, both of which are set in stunning spots and exhibit some impressive art and architecture. Another highlight is the twisted ‘Path of Tree Roots’ and experiencing the temple’s six-sided kongosho spot. This is apparently the point where the mount’s spiritual energy is concentrated. After the hike, you can soak a while in Kurama’s hot springs before heading back to Kyoto.

16. Togetsukyo Bridge

Besides being known for its beautiful bamboo grove, Arashiyama also boasts the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. Spanning the rushing Katsura River, it makes for some superb photos and viewing, what with the rugged mountains and wide open waters around it.

Famously featured in esteemed ukiyo-e artist Hiroshige’s series of woodblock prints, it was originally built in 836. Once wood, the 155 meter-long bridge is now mostly made of concrete as earlier ones kept being damaged by floods. Every day, eager crowds flock here to snap photos of the river and Mt. Arashiyama rising ahead.

If all the romantic views and scenery weren’t enough, its name also magically means ‘Moon Crossing Bridge’ due to a poetic observation by Emperor Kameyama centuries-ago. Particularly popular times to visit are in spring for the cherry blossoms and autumn for its trees’ colourful foliage.

15. Nanzenji Temple

That same ancient emperor had the elegant Nanzenji Temple constructed in 1291. One of the quieter ones in Kyoto, it also contains an attractive Zen garden and an amazing old aqueduct. Many people stop briefly as they make their way along the Philosopher’s Path that runs beside it.

As it has been destroyed numerous times over the years by fire, its complex has constantly varied in size, having last been rebuilt in 1905. Nowadays, guests are greeted by a gigantic Sanmon gate, one of the grandest in all Japan. Dwarfed by it are the art-filled Abbot’s Quarters and a delightful little dry landscape garden from the Edo period.

Its most unique feature however is the hundred-year-old aqueduct that lies just up the hill to the right. Used to transport water from Lake Biwa, its fading red bricks and fine arches create some fabulous photo opportunities amidst the colourful leaves of the surrounding trees.

14. Kyoto Imperial Palace & Kyoto Gyoen

Covering an absolutely enormous part of the city center is the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Located within Kyoto Gyoen – large green grounds that are open to the public – it has interesting guided tours to take.

Up until the Meiji Restoration in 1869, Japan’s emperors and their families resided here for centuries. Although the current complex only dates to a decade or so earlier (due to yet another fire), its ornate buildings and ornamental gardens are still all intricately-crafted.

On guided tours, you’ll get to examine these handsome gates, palaces and historic halls. On the way, you’ll also hear all about the Imperial Family, their role and impact on the nation. If you don’t manage to book one, there is also a free audio guide app you can download beforehand.

While many would count the Imperial Palace as a must-see site, we weren’t all that bothered by it. As with the palace in Tokyo, you cover huge distances without seeing all that much. If you’re pressed for time, we’d probably recommend skipping this and seeing some of the city’s other sights.

13. Nishiki Market

If you’ve already had enough of temples (they do lose their shine a bit by the tenth one), then Nishiki Market is perhaps one of the better things to do in Kyoto. Loads of fun to explore, its packed stands and stalls have tons of tasty Japanese delicacies for you to try.

For over 400 years, vendors have hawked their wares at the massive market affectionately known as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’. In total, its covered pedestrian arcades are lined by around 130 shops, all facing out to the public. Delightfully decorated, they display everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to sweet snacks, seafood and souvenirs.

Foodies will certainly love the market’s remarkable range of products and its vibrant atmosphere. As there is so much to see and sample, we came back a couple of times to try out different restaurants and street food options.

12. Tofukuji Temple

Just north of the infamous Fushimi Inari Shrine is yet another terrific temple to visit. One of the ‘five great Zen temples of Kyoto’, Tofukuji has lots of lovely architecture and artworks to admire. These all lie amidst some utterly idyllic gardens.

Established in 1236 by the imperial chancellor Kujo Michiie, its grounds once contained over seventy buildings at the temple’s zenith. Various fires and the 1868 shinbutsu bunri decree to limit the wealth and power of the Buddhist sects eventually saw their numbers greatly reduced.

Nowadays, the complex has almost 25 sub-temples to stroll around with its two-story sanmon gate, the oldest surviving one in Japan, being the main highlight. Other than snapping pics of its paintings and portraits, you have to see its magnificent moss garden and maple trees. In autumn, visitors pack onto Tsuten-kyo Bridge to see the temple immersed in all the trees’ astounding colours.

11. Eikando Zenrinji Temple

Also famed for its fall foliage is the enchanting Eikando Zenrinji Temple, just north of Nanzenji along the Philosopher’s Path. Scattered across the slopes of Kyoto’s Eastern Mountain, it is arguably one of the most beautiful in the entire city (and that’s saying something!).

Founded back in 853, its gorgeous gates, halls and pagoda are linked by pretty paths and staircases, weaving their way up the hillside. Wandering around, you’ll find koi ponds and cherry blossoms while glittering gold treasures and religious artworks decorate its interiors. The most important of these is the twelfth-century statue of Amida Buddha looking over his shoulder.

Even without seeing its arresting autumnal colors, we were blown away by the temple’s serenity and scenery. Asides from the pristine presentation and layout of its gardens and buildings, there are also fine views over Kyoto to be enjoyed from its higher reaches. Exploring the temple without your shoes on somehow only adds to the experience!

10. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Certainly one of the city’s most photographed spots is the now iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Forest on its northwestern outskirts. Although often overcrowded, there is a reason so many people head here to snap selfies and take pics for Instagram.

Located right next to Tenryu-ji Temple and Togetsukyo Bridge, the towering grove is mostly made up of moso bamboo. Snaking their way through the densely packed, bright green stalks are a few paths to amble along. Hearing the rustle of their leaves and seeing the light through the canopy reflect off of them is a very peaceful feeling, despite the hordes around you.

As it isn’t very large, you’re best off visiting early in the morning to avoid the worst of the crowds. The forest also has some small tea stands for you to stop off and several that sell souvenirs.

9. Ryoanji Temple

Ryōan-ji is a Zen temple in North Kyoto. It is one of the few examples that still remain of an art form known as dry landscape, or kare-sansui. This art is a type of Zen garden that features a bed of small, smooth pebbles and a few larger, distinctive rock formations.

The garden at Ryoanji features a collection of 15 carefully placed rocks, apparently adrift in a sea of sand, enclosed by an earthen wall.

The temple itself dates back to the 11th century, and it served as a mausoleum for several of the Japanese emperors after their passing. While these tombs can still be visited, it is the large rock gardens that receive the most attention from visitors coming from across Japan and even around the world.

8. Gion District

One of the most magical things to do in Kyoto is to explore its historic old Gion District. Offering up an alluring look into what life in Japan was once like, its atmospheric streets and traditional inns are still frequented by colorfully-clad geishas in kimonos.

Wonderfully well-preserved, the charming neighborhood in Higashiyama-ku slowly evolved over the centuries to accommodate and entertain visitors to Yasaka Shrine. Lying along the eastern bank of the Kamogawa River, its flagstones are bordered by beautiful old buildings, many now home to cosy cafes and restaurants or shops and izakayas.

Here you can take part in traditional tea ceremonies, watch dramatic kabuki theater plays and meet elaborately dressed geishas. Many rent kimonos for the day and explore the district, taking photos in the elegant outfits amongst its quaint streets. We absolutely loved Gion’s architecture and ambience and can’t wait to go back!

7. Nijo Castle

When most people imagine castles, they picture the Gothic stone palaces found in Europe. In Kyoto, however, Nijo Castle is actually made from wood. The design is highly unusual, being made up of two concentric rings, with a circular courtyard between the two.

Nijo Castle was built in the 17th century, and all of the feudal lords in Western Japan were required to aid in the funding of its construction. The palace itself is made from cypress and gold leaf is used extensively in the decor. Don’t forget to look up when admiring the castle, because some of the ceilings are dotted with gold mosaics.

6. Ginkakuji Temple

Right at the northern end of the Philosopher’s Path is the popular and picturesque Ginkakuji Temple, also known as the Silver Pavilion. One of Kyoto’s main tourist attractions, it is set in a tranquil spot amidst gardens, streams and small waterfalls.

Originally built in the fifteenth-century to be a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, it was converted a couple of decades later into a Zen temple. Unlike the glittering Golden Pavilion, plans to paint it silver were never followed through. It still looks impressive however as bright green mosses, plants and trees surround the temple and lake before it.

Although often quite busy, the gardens still have a peaceful feel with phenomenal viewpoints dotted here and there. There are also some cool sand sculptures and of course, the architecture of the Silver Pavilion itself to enjoy.

5. Philosopher’s Walk

The Philosopher’s Walk is a simple pedestrian trail that runs alongside a canal in Kyoto.

On either side of the walkway stand cherry trees, giving the route a mystical and particularly scenic appearance. The Philosopher’s Walk is shorter than two miles, but it passes by a number of important shrines and temples.

An iconic Japanese philosopher named Nishida Kitaro used to walk along this stretch daily as a form of meditation, which is where the name Philosopher’s Walk originated. However, you don’t have to be a philosopher to admire the views, get great photos of the cherry trees and see a number of tourist attractions in Kyoto within a hour’s walk.

4. Sanjusangendo Temple

Unlike almost all of Kyoto’s other incredible temples, Sanjusangendo isn’t surrounded by spectacular gardens and doesn’t display much interesting architecture. Instead, the iconic landmark is renowned and revered for the 1,001 intricately-crafted statues crammed in its interior.

Dedicated to Sahasrabhuja-arya-avalokitesvara (phew!) or the Thousand Armed Kannon, its very long hondo hall was impressively completed back in 1266. Still standing today, it contains countless rows of life-sized statues, covered in gold leaf. Even more remarkable is that each individual figure and face of the goddess of mercy is slightly different. All together, they and the heavy incense-infused air of the temple create quite a striking scene.

Outside, you can see 28 sculptures of guardian deities thought to have originated from Hinduism. A small but scenic garden at the back also provides you with a quiet space to contemplate and take a break before getting back to sightseeing.

3. Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Spread across the rolling foothills of Mount Otowa in eastern Kyoto is the ginormous Kiyomizu-Dera Temple. Mostly known for its main hall’s massive veranda, the religious site is an absolute must-visit for its captivating architecture, commanding views and cheery cherry trees.

While the important temple was founded in 778, all its current buildings ‘only’ date to 1633. The most eye-catching of these is, of course, its humongous hall that protrudes out from the hillside atop huge pillars. Already a stupendous sight, it was constructed without a single nail or screw – all its wooden parts having been placed snugly together so they can’t budge.

Other than basking in its breathtaking views, you can explore the temple’s lush leafy grounds and see the small waterfall after which it is named. Although the veranda and views were great, we were just as enamored with its bright orange-painted pagoda. Looking out over Kyoto, it makes for some fine photos, either against the sky or peeking above the nearby treetops.

2. Golden Pavilion

One of the most famous buildings in all of Japan is the Golden Pavilion, better known to locals as Kinkakuji. This Zen Buddhism temple was originally a privately owned structure, but toward the end of the 14th century it was converted to a temple.

The temple has three stories, and they seamlessly incorporate three major Japanese styles of architecture: Samurai, Zen and Shinden. Yellow and gold coloring, not to mention the bright bronze phoenix ornament on the apex of the roof, helps give the Golden Pavilion its name.

Surrounding the temple are beautiful, manicured gardens, some of which are designed to show the harmony between heaven and Earth.

1. Fushimi Inari Shrine

It is possible that the Fushimi Inari Shrine is the most impressive landmark in all of Kyoto. In reality, it is not just one shrine, but the head shrine (taisha) for 32,000 Inari shrines across Japan. Stretching 230 meters (750 feet) up the hill behind it are hundreds of bright red torii (gates).

You could easily spend several hours walking up the hillside, taking in the beautiful views of the city of Kyoto and walking through the torii, which appear luminescent in the late afternoon sun. This shrine still holds incredible religious and personal significance to local residents.

During the Japanese New Year, millions will come to pay their respects. As you approach the shrine, look for vendors selling the sweet tsujiura senbei, a kind of cookie local to the area and believed to be an early predecessor of the American fortune cookie.

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The 10 Top Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan

If Kyoto is not at the top of your bucket list, it should be. The Japanese city is one of the rare destinations you can count on to constantly exceed the hype built up around it. Which is not surprising, what when you consider that walking its streets exposes you to more than a millennium of history, most of which saw Kyoto as Japan's imperial capital.

As you'll see exploring the selections below, which have all earned mentions as the Top 10 things to do in Kyoto, the city is not so much a tourist trap as it is a tourist paradise, a place where you'll want to stay for far longer than your plane ticket allows.

Kiyomizu-dera

You might find yourself concerned as you walk the hill up to Kiyomizu-dera, an eighth-century Buddhist temple perched on a hill in the eastern reaches of Kyoto. It's extremely crowded here, rain or shine, sun or snow and at almost all hours of the day.

Once you reach the main view point inside the temple, however, particularly if you happen to visit around sunset, you'll understand why this is among the best of Kyoto's top attractions, and is totally worth putting up with the throngs of tourists.

Tip: While Kiyomizu-dera is beautiful 365 days a year, it's especially stunning under spring's cherry blossoms and autumn's brilliant colors.

Taylor McIntyre / TripSavvy

Would you believe that one of Japan's most picturesque bamboo forests sits within Kyoto's city limits? You will once you set foot in Arashiyama, which is less than half an hour from Kyoto station by train or bus. As an added bonus, you enter the forest through Tenryuji Temple, which provides an absolutely gorgeous gateway to the grove.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

 Taylor McIntyre / TripSavvy

Another of Kyoto's most iconic images is of seemingly endless orange gates extending up the side of a mountain. This is the Fushimi Inari Shrine , whose path is actually less than two miles, just in case you're thinking to hike its entirely.

Of course, if you're just on the hunt for the ultimate Kyoto selfie, you won't have to walk far from Inari station. After just a few minutes, in fact, you'll realize why this is one of Kyoto's top 10 attractions!

Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)

While a gold-covered Zen temple has technically existed at the site of Kinkaku-ji since the mid-15th century, the one you see reflecting on the pond today actually dates back less than 100 years to 1955, when it was rebuilt after arson at the hands of a fanatic monk. Like most of Kyoto's top ten attractions, the aptly-named Golden Pavilion looks great no matter when you visit, although the white snows of winter seem to contrast best with its shiny exterior.

The Philosopher's Walk

Interestingly, the second-most famous Zen temple in Kyoto is called the Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji), although it is not conspicuously silver in color. Although not as pretty as its golden sister, the Silver Pavilion sits at the beginning of the so-called Philosopher's Walk, which might just be Kyoto's prettiest stroll. If you head to the Silver Pavilion after lunch, you can walk the entirely of the path before sunset, potentially winding up at Kiyomizu-dera in time for sunset.

Explore Kiyomizu-dera or nearby Gion, which boasts a few important selling points. First among these is the fact that Gion is the surest place in Kyoto to spot a geisha, although this title does come with a caveat: Geishas are still incredible rare to spot , and most of the ones you do won't want their pictures taken. Rather, you're much more likely to spot visitors from around Japan and neighboring countries dressed in geisha outfits. And let's face it: Some of them look convincing enough that your friends back home might not realize they're impostors!

Kyoto Imperial Palace

In spite of its important name and massive size, Kyoto Imperial Palace does not make it on to lists of Kyoto's top attractions as often as some of the other places you see above and below it. Yet it's a worthwhile addition to any Kyoto itinerary, both because it served as the residence of Japan's imperial family for more than 1,000 years, and because it sits right in the middle of many of the attractions you're going to see anyway.

Kyoto Tower

Most of the top ten attractions in Kyoto are ancient, which isn't a shock when you consider how much history the city has. With this being said, a trip to the top of Kyoto Tower is worth considering, if only because of the incredible panorama it offers.

Even if you only manage to admire Kyoto Tower from afar (it looks great from the view point of Kiyomizu-dera!) it's impossible to miss from ground level in the city, on account of the fact that it towers 430 feet into the air—Kyoto's tallest structure, by a long shot.

Nijo Castle

Like Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle is the most unsung of Kyoto's top ten attractions, since it's not as selfie-worthy as Fushimi Inari Shrine or Arashiyma, nor as scenic as the Philosopher's Walk or Kiyomizu-dera. Yet Nijo Castle is as picturesque as it is historically important—it was built in the early 17th century to house the first Shogun of the Edo period (which, ironically, was what led to Japan's capital being moved to Tokyo). Like the Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle is also convenient enough that there's no reason you shouldn't visit it.

Kyoto Station

As is the case with Kyoto Tower, Kyoto Station is among the most modern of the top ten attractions in Kyoto, with most of what remains of it having been built long after its 1877 inauguration. Even more surprising than the station's inclusion on this list, however, is the incredible perspective you get from its 15th floor, which reveals a building much more futuristic than you'd expect for the gateway to a largely ancient city like Kyoto.

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Home » Asia » Japan » Kyoto

20 BEST Places to Visit in Kyoto (2024)

Kyoto is Japan’s ancient capital and is often described as one of the most beautiful in the world. And after you’ve spent some time there, you’ll understand just how it got that title.

There are endless amazing and historic places to visit in Kyoto, amazing food, and an incredible culture to explore. So, no matter how long you’re spending in the city, you won’t be short of things to see and do.

But there’s a downside to all of this beauty. Kyoto can feel like a very foreign city sometimes, and this can make it a little intimidating to visitors. It’s so old that it can be difficult to navigate if you don’t speak Japanese because it grew in a time long before people traveled for fun.

If you’re concerned about traveling in Kyoto, you shouldn’t be. With our easy guide, you’ll be able to find all the places you’re most interested in and go home with priceless memories and lots of great photos to put on social media!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Kyoto:

These are the best places to visit in kyoto, faq on the best places to visit in kyoto, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in kyoto.

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Southern Higashiyama

Southern Higashiyama is home to many of Kyoto’s most famous and popular tourist destinations. If you haven’t been to Southern Higashiyama, you haven’t been to Kyoto!

• Visit glorious well-known temples like Sanjusangen-do, Kiyomizu dera temple, Kennin-ji, and Chion-in.
• Try and spot geishas in Hanami-koji .
• Be wowed by the cherry blossom at Shimbashi (in season).

I know you can’t wait to get started so get yourself a matcha green tea latte while you peruse where to stay in Kyoto and learn all about the BEST neighbourhoods in Kyoto and the accommodation options they offer.

Book yourself an Airbnb next to your favourite attractions in Kyoto! Now, onto the bamboo forests…

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#1 – Kinkaku ji Temple & the Golden Pavilion

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• One of the most instantly recognizable landmarks in Kyoto.
• You’ll be able to  take some amazing pictures of this golden pavilion as you clamber around the lush gardens.
• This site gets really busy in tourist season, so try going in the off-season for a really amazing experience.

Why it’s so awesome: This temple is one of the most famous temples in Kyoto and it’s easy to see why. It’s a golden pavilion surrounded by gardens that are perfectly designed to invoke serenity and peace. The site was once built as a retirement home for a famous shogun and was made a temple after his death. Get this one on your Kyoto itinerary .

What to do there: This site is amazing at any time of day or year, but if you want to see the sun gleaming off the gold leaf that wraps around this building then go in the early morning. This will also allow you to get there ahead of the crowds because this Kyoto must see gets incredibly busy. The area is also incredibly beautiful in autumn, when you can see the building backlit by fire red trees.

#2 – The Fushimi Inari taisha Shrine – A must visit place to visit in Kyoto on the weekend!

• Made famous in the book and movie, Memoirs of a Geisha.
• A stunningly beautiful and haunting set of trails that weave through the mountain.
• You’ll need to be physically fit to make it up the walkway, but the views and the ornate shrines are worth the effort.

Why it’s so awesome: If you’ve ever seen Memoirs of a Geisha and marvelled at the scenes where the characters walked along pathways lined with bright red pillars, then the Fushimi Inari shrine is where those images were shot. This Kyoto must-visit attraction is the city’s most iconic location and includes thousands of the red torii gates set along trails that wind their way up the mountain.

While it is an epic spot for Instagram photos, it is in fact a working shrine, dedicated to the shinto god of rice, Inari. You will see many fox statues around the site because foxes are said to be his messengers.

What to do there: You’ll need most of an afternoon to explore this site . The trails are surrounded by a network of shrines and you’ll get amazing views at key spots up the mountain. Make sure you spend some time at the Yotsutsuji Intersection, where you’ll be able to take some amazing pictures of Kyoto.

You should note that this is an incredibly popular spot for photos and if you want to get a nice shot without anyone in the background, that’s not gonna happen. Be expecting large crowds throughout the entire day and to be waiting a long time for people to move out the way for you to get a nice photo. Personally, I thought the busy atmosphere of this place takes away the magic.

I’ve come up with an EPIC Fushimi Inari travel guide to help you make the most out of your Japanese journey. Don’t miss it!

#3 – Kiyomizu dera Temple – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Kyoto

• While you’re visiting Kyoto, make sure you stop by this site for some peace and quiet.
• This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so be respectful!

Why it’s so awesome: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is set at the top of a hill and is surrounded by cherry trees, which is why it’s widely considered to be one of the most beautiful sites in the city. It’s also known as a magical temple, where you can find true love or drink from streams symbolizing love, success, or a long life.

What to do there: This is a beautiful, serene spot to spend some time in. When you arrive at the Jishu Shrine, try to walk between two stones with your eyes closed in front of it. This apparently will allow you to find your true love.

You should also spend some time at the Otowa Waterfall, which is divided into three streams representing love, success, and longevity. Drink from whichever stream symbolizes your greatest wish and really become a part of the mysticism that surrounds this beautiful site.

#4 – Kyoto Tower

• You’ll get panoramic views from the top of Kyoto Tower and be able to see the whole city and all the way to Osaka.
• Go at sunset for the best views.

Why it’s so awesome: You may think by now that Kyoto is all temples and shrines, but it’s also a functioning modern city. The Kyoto Tower is the tallest in the city and offers incredible views that extend all the way to the next city!

What to do there: Go up the tower at sunset if you want to see the city against the coloured sky and make sure you spend some time exploring the telescopes and touchscreen at the top of the building. They highlight the best places in Kyoto for tourists, and you may get some new ideas for your trip from them!

Get A Local Kyoto Guide! 

I’m sure you agree that our things to do in Kyoto guide is awesome. However, if you really want to get under the skin of Kyoto, then why not get yourself a tailor-made itinerary from a local Kyoto guide?! Via Hero can connect you with local Kyoto guides who will custom design a perfect itinerary for you.

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#5 – Pontocho – A must-see for foodies!

• You’ll find the best places to eat in Kyoto in this area!
• Don’t just follow your guidebook, the best restaurants are usually small and don’t have English menus.

Why it’s so awesome: Pontocho is a lively alley that’s lined with restaurants that offer a range of Japanese foods from fine dining experiences to snack foods that should be on everyone’s backpacking in Japan itinerary. This range and the quality of the food makes it one of the most popular places to visit in Kyoto for locals and tourists alike.

What to do there: The best restaurants in this area probably won’t have English advertisements, so ignore your guidebook and just explore. Look for a restaurant that smells and good and has lots of locals in it, because that’s where the best food will be. If it’s a hot night, try to choose a restaurant that overlooks the river, as you’ll be able to eat your meal in slightly cooler air.

#6 – Kyoto Imperial Palace

Why it’s so awesome: As one of the most important sites in Kyoto, Japan, the Kyoto Imperial Palace leaves everyone who visits it in awe. As the once former residence of the Emporers of Japan before they moved to Tokyo, you can be sure to see ornate detailing and gorgeous interiors throughout this centuries-old landmark.

What to do there: By taking a walking tour of the Imperial Palace, you can learn all about the history, marvel at the intricacies of the design and learn about the importance of the residence of the shogun.

For culture vultures and lovers of Japanese history, you cannot miss this attraction.

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#7 – Yokai Street – Quite the quirky place in Kyoto!

• This street reveals the more unusual side of Japanese culture.
• Make sure you take your camera to capture images of the imaginative little statues outside the businesses!

Why it’s so awesome: Japanese culture is incredibly detailed and unusual, and this small street reveals just how unique it really is. It’s a commercial street that celebrates local folklore, which includes the yokai, strange beings from Japanese legends. Some yokai are good, others bad, and some are inanimate objects that come to life. These ideas are explored by the business owners in this street, who all have small statues outside of their shops celebrating these stories.

What to do there: This street isn’t a tourist area and the clientele is mostly locals. The statues are just there to acknowledge Japan’s culture and past and to introduce it to curious passers-by. It’s located near the shrine on Imadegawa Dori and each display is different in a nod to the incredible variety in the yokai stories.

#8 – Sagano Bamboo Forest

• If you’re visiting Kyoto and looking for little nature, then this is a great place to visit.

Why it’s so awesome: This site is located about 30 minutes from Kyoto’s city center and it’s a surprise to see so much nature so close to the city. The wooden paths weaving through huge bamboo stalks are a Kyoto must do and are the perfect place to wander and take in one of nature’s miracles.

What to do there: This site is very popular at the moment, so it often gets crowded with tourists. Fortunately, there are numerous paths through the bamboo, which means that you’ll be able to find a quiet spot to just stand and listen. Or, if you’re legs are feeling tired, one of my favourite things to do here is to take a rickshaw ride through the bamboo forest, which is a really zen activity.

The sound of the bamboo, the creaking and rustling, and twisting of wood, is one of Japan’s most important soundscapes, and you’ll never forget those sounds once you’ve heard them. It’s a strangely meditative sound, which is why this is one of the most unusual things to do in Kyoto.

#9 – Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple – One of the most underrated places to see in Kyoto

• A peaceful Zen Buddhist Temple that’s a little off the beaten track.
• A great choice if you’re looking for Kyoto vacation ideas where you can get away from the crowds at the more popular attractions in Kyoto.

Why it’s so awesome: This remote Buddhist zen temple is located on the top of a hill and surrounded by more than 1,000 stone sculptures. It’s an oasis of calm that encourages meditation and deep thought that might not have been there if it weren’t for the work of one man.

The temple was destroyed in the 1950s by a typhoon and painstakingly rebuilt by one of its priests with the help of the locals. They also created the carvings that surround the site.

What to do there: Pay close attention to the stone sculptures that surround the zen temple. They depict Buddha’s disciples and line the path like moss-covered guardians. They were created by the priest and the locals, so the small faces are unique and incredibly expressive.

#10 – Nishiki Market – A great place in Kyoto if you love to shop!

• A great place if you love to shop and even if you don’t!
• Make sure you sample all the food on offer, as Japan has one of the greatest snack cultures in the world.

Why it’s so awesome: The Nishiki market has enough shops, stalls, and food options to fill an entire day of your time! That’s why it’s one of the most popular attractions in Kyoto for tourists and locals alike. It’s also a good place to good on hot or rainy days as the entire area is shaded to keep you safe from the elements.

What to do there: Browse the stalls for souvenirs and just take in the action. This is the perfect location for some people watching as you’ll see everything from local families to crowds of tourists. Make sure you bring your appetite with you too, as the stalls offer a range of tasty snacks from fresh seafood to dumplings and yakitori.

#11 – The Philosopher’s Path, the Best Place to Visit for Cherry Blossoms

• One of the most meditative walks you’ll ever take.
• This path is a Kyoto must do and is popular with locals and tourists alike.

Why it’s so awesome: The Philosopher’s path winds its way from the Silver Pavilion to the neighborhood of Nanzenji. It’s a long walk if you go the whole way and designed to encourage meditation and peace. You don’t have to walk the whole way but treading in the footsteps of all those who have come before you is a strangely connective experience that shouldn’t be missed.

If you’re visiting during April and you’re lucky enough to be in Kyoto during the time. of the cherry blossom blooms, then this is the place to see them! The Philosopher’s Path is lined with cherry trees that flower a gorgeous pink for one week only. Cherry blossoms are short-lived, so you would be really lucky to witness them.

What to do there: Start wherever you choose and just walk. This is a beautiful part of Kyoto, so there’s plenty to see along the path. It’s also lined with cafes and restaurants, so when you get hungry or thirsty then stop off for something tasty before resuming your walk.

#12 – Maruyuma Park – A perfect place to visit in Kyoto if you are on a budget!

• The perfect place to visit in Kyoto if you need a break from the city.
• This park is a stunning example of Japanese design and form.

Why it’s so awesome: This is one of the most popular parks in the city and it’s a fairly young one as well. Until 1886 it was little more than a weed garden until it was redesigned by Jihai Ogawa, a renowned landscape gardener. The garden is done in a traditional Japanese style with ponds, decorative bridges and statues.

What to do there: If you’re in Kyoto during Japan’s cherry blossom season, then this is the perfect place to see them. It does get fairly crowded at this time of the year as well as noisy, but it’s the perfect place to see this beautiful spectacle. The rest of the year you can relax and have a picnic or explore this beautiful green space. And during festivals, the park is alive with portable food carts that will offer you some of the tastiest snacks you’ve ever tried.

#13 – Higashiyama District – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Kyoto

• When you walk through this district, you’ll feel like you’re walking through Japan’s ancient past.
• A great place to put on your Kyoto itinerary if you want to do some shopping.

Why it’s so awesome: This district of Kyoto holds all the age and the majesty that you would expect from such an old city. The streets are narrow and lined with wooden buildings and traditional stores that sell all manner of foods and goods. It’s a popular area for tourists and locals alike, but don’t let that stop you from spending an afternoon in this picturesque district.

What to do there: Put aside an afternoon just to wander. The narrow streets are a maze of dark wood buildings that smell of aged wood and incense, and the vibe and the history behind them will excite your imagination. Make sure you stop by the shops, restaurants and cafes that interest you. You’ll find everything from pottery to sweets and traditional crafts, so it’s a great place to pick up a souvenir to take home with you.

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#14 – Gion, the Geisha District of Kyoto City

• Home of the famous geishas!
• This area has a variety of great places to eat, shop, and have a meal.
• If you enjoy people watching, this is the area to do it in.

What to do there: When you’re trying to decide what to do in Kyoto City, this is the place to go for inspiration. Gion is home to the famous Geisha bars, close to some of the best zen temples in the city and contains lots of restaurants and traditional tea houses, where you can enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony . There’s always something going on in this area, and you could spend an entire day exploring it and eating amazing foods.

What to do there: Arrive during the day to take full advantage of everything this district has to offer. Have a meal and then rent a kimono and wander the streets in traditional fashion, looking at the traditional crafts and shops. You’ll be able to pick up some great souvenirs in this area and once it gets dark, you might be able to see some geishas hurrying towards their workplaces in traditional garb with cell phones in hand!

One of my all-time favourite things to do in Gion is to enjoy a traditional tea ceremony. In traditional japanese culture, the drinking of tea is not just to quench your thirst but a meditative process. A tea ceremony is one of the most unique things to do in Kyoto and there is no better place to enjoy it than in Gion, the heart of ancient Kyoto.

#15 – Shorenin Temple – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Kyoto!

• One of the quieter and most beautiful temples in Kyoto with a great atmosphere.
• The gardens at this temple make it one of the best places to visit in Kyoto for quiet contemplation.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want to explore somewhere that’s traditional but not crowded, then this temple is a great choice. Despite being close to the Higashiyama District, this is one of the quietest temples in the city. It’s also a monzeki temple, which means that its head priest was traditionally chosen from Japan’s imperial family.

What to do there: This is a place of peace and tranquillity, and it’s a great place to go when you need to relax and get your energy back. There are also four gardens attached to the temple which are absolutely stunning and well worth exploring.

#16 – Nijo Castle

• A castle that dates back to the Edo-era and brings up thoughts of samurais and Shoguns.
• If you’re interested in Kyoto’s history, this is the perfect place to explore it.

Why it’s so awesome: You might not think of Japan in connection with castles, but there are a lot of these old structures all over the country. Nijo Castle is one of the best places to visit in Kyoto City if you want to explore this past, with its samurai, Shoguns, and flashing swords. The castle has two large moats and there are actually 2 palaces inside the castle itself. The first was owned by the Shoguns and the other by the emperor.

What to do there: The Shogun’s palace is open to the public, so take the time to explore it. The palace has what’s known as nightingale floors, which are deliberately created so that they squeak when you walk on them. This feature was an early alarm system for the Shogun, who was always at risk of attack!

This area is also buzzing with some of Kyoto’s best hostels . Book yourself in and visit the castle without paying for transportation!

#17 – Kyoto National Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Kyoto

• If you want to learn more about traditional Japanese art, then this museum will give you a good knowledge base.
• It’s one of four national museums across Japan and has both permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Why it’s so awesome: There are four national museums across Japan and the Kyoto National Museum focuses on traditional Japanese art. If you’ve ever wanted to learn about the precise and very unusual artforms that were popular in Japan’s history, then this museum will give you a thorough education. The museum’s special exhibitions are shown in a building from the Meiji period, which adds some historical drama to the collections, while the permanent exhibition is in a modern building built in 2014.

What to do there: The collection in this museum changes constantly as special exhibitions are put on display. So, when you travel to Kyoto, make sure that you look up online to see what’s showing and don’t miss any special displays that pique your interest.

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#18 – Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum

• The perfect place to have a drink and learn more about this traditional alcohol.
• There’s a free sake tasting after a visit to this museum, so make sure you have some food in your stomach before you go there.

Why it’s so awesome: Sake is absolutely iconic in Japan , and you can’t visit Kyoto without tasting some of this traditional alcohol. And the best way to appreciate it is with a visit to this museum, where you’ll be able to see the traditional tools and methods that are used to make some of the many varieties of sake.

What to do there: The museum is open during business hours throughout the year except over the Christmas and New Year’s period. You need to pay a small admission fee to get in, and then you’ll be able to explore the history of this fascinating and historically important beverage. Afterwards, don’t miss out on the free sake tasting, and don’t be surprised if it’s a little stronger than you expected!

#19 – Kyoto International Manga Museum

• The Kyoto International Manga Museum will allow you to explore this extremely popular Japanese artform.
• Manga are Japanese comic books, but they’re definitely not just for kids.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum serves as a facility for manga research and it also has a massive exhibition space where you can explore an incredibly wide range of different genres. They also hold regular special exhibitions on international manga themes, so make sure you check them out if you’re in Kyoto at the right time.

What to do there: This museum is open every day except Wednesday and there’s an entrance fee. The fee is well worth paying if you’re interested in Manga though because they have an incredibly wide range of these popular books as well as exhibitions on international manga. So, if you read manga, or if you’re interested in seeing what all the hype’s about, then put aside a couple of hours to explore this museum.

#20 – JR Kyoto Station – A great place to see in Kyoto if you love architecture

• A great place to start or end your trip to Japan.
• You don’t need to be traveling to visit this station – it has restaurants, shops, and food options that will keep you occupied for hours.

Why it’s so awesome: It might sound funny to hear that you need to see a train station, but Japan always seems to be the exception to the idea that functional places have to be boring and ugly. Kyoto station is amazing. It’s an architectural wonder that’s won several international awards and it’s also one of the biggest buildings in Japan.

What to do there: This station feels like a small world all packed into one area. It has a shopping mall, hotel, movie theater and department store all packed into one area and yet it always manages to feel comfortable and beautiful rather than crowded. Make sure you take the time to explore it while you’re in the area.

Have a meal, see a movie, or just wander around and take photos of the striking building. Japan is relatively safe , but don’t fall onto the tracks while looking up at the brilliant architecture around you, that one’s on you. It’s a fitting entry point into Japan and a great place to spend some time while you’re traveling around the country.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Kyoto

Best places to visit in Kyoto during autumn?

The famous Kinkaku ji Temple is wonderful any time of year, but the colours of the golden pavilion are especially stunning during the autumn months.

Best places to visit in Kyoto in winter?

Head indoors to the Nishiki Market and indulge in some local food and pick up some unique souvenirs at the same time.

What is Kyoto best known for?

The city is best know for it’s historic sites, castles and geishas. Check out the Southern Higashiyama area of Kyoto for the highlights.

What should I not miss in Kyoto?

You can’t miss the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine… it’s that long walkway covered in red tori gates! Just be sure to go early to miss the crowds!

Kyoto is probably one of the most foreign feeling cities you’ll ever visit. It has a vibe and a sensibility that’s incredibly different to what you’ll find in western countries and a beauty that’s both ancient and restrained.

When you’re looking for the best places to visit in Kyoto, you’ll be confronted with a seemingly endless list of historic and stunningly beautiful sites. And that will be your hardest task when you’re in this city, sorting through all the options and deciding which ones you want to see.

That’s why I’ve created this list so you can spend all your time basking in the atmosphere rather than trying to make up your mind what you most want to see.

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14 Places to Visit in Kyoto + Things To Do

If there’s only one place you should visit in Japan, it has to be Kyoto! This historic city is a must-see destination for travelers hoping to get a glimpse of Old Japan.

Kyoto is one of Japan’s most beautiful cities, famed for its, which includes 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Here are the main places that I enjoyed in Kyoto. This list is perfect for first-timers planning a quick visit.

Kyoto travel essentials: (click below to view prices online)

Where to stay Tours + discounts WiFi/SIM

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See also :   Kyoto Itinerary  |  Osaka Tourist Spots  |  Best Places to Visit in Japan  |  Best Places to Visit in Tokyo  |  Japan Itinerary

1. Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha)

Location : 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Southern Kyoto . Save on Google Maps .

Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and success in business, the Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most famous sights in Japan. Here, you’ll find the iconic vermillion torii gate covered trail that leads to the sacred Mount Inari. The Fushimi Inari Shrine is perhaps the busiest tourist spot in Kyoto, so visit early in the morning before the crowds arrive.

How to go :

Take the JR train (JR Nara Line) to JR Inari Station, two stations away from Kyoto Station. You’ll find the shrine right outside the station. It’s also a short walk away from the Fushimi Inari Station along the Keihan Main Line.

Kyoto and Nara Day Tour from Osaka/Kyoto

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Kimono Rental in Kyoto

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. I’ve also shared photos from my  Instagram feed . Use Instagram’s save feature for quick access to your travel/feed goals.

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2. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Location : Arashiyama, Ukyo Ward, Western Kyoto . Save on Google Maps .

Found in the western outskirts of the city, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is one of the most scenic attractions of Kyoto. A walking path cuts through the bamboo grove allowing you to get immersed in the serene view of towering bamboo trees.

Take the JR train to the JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. The bamboo grove is a 15-minute easy walk away from the station.

Sagano Romantic Train Ticket Ticket

Arashiyama rickshaw tour.

3. Tenryuji Temple

Tenryuji Temple in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan

Located beside the bamboo grove, the Tenryuji Temple is a must-visit when in Arashiyama. It the top Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto and registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto”. Don’t miss the sprawling Zen garden with the Arashiyama mountains as its backdrop.

4. Togetsu-kyo Bridge, Arashiyama

Togetsu-kyō Bridge in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan

Location : Arashiyama, Ukyo Ward . Save on Google Maps .

The Togetsu-kyo Bridge, which literally means “Moon Crossing Bridge” is a well-known central landmark in Arashiyama. Stopover for a peaceful view of the riverside and surrounding mountains.

5. Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion)

Location : 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Northwest Kyoto . Save on Google Maps .

In the northwest part of the city, you’ll find the Kinkakuji Temple or the Golden Pavillion, one of the most photographed sites in Kyoto. Take your spot from across the large pond to enjoy the landscape garden and the Zen Buddhist temple, which has its top two floors covered in gold leaf.

6. Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizudera Temple view overlooking Kyoto, Japan

Location : 294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, East Kyoto . Save on Google Maps .

Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which literally means “Pure Water Temple” was ) is a Buddhist temple founded on the site of the Otowa Waterfall in the eastern hills of Kyoto. A beautiful view can be seen from the terrace, which overlooks the canopy of trees and the Kyoto cityscape.

7. Kyoto Old Town (Sanneizaka & Nineizaka Streets)

Location : Higashiyama Ward, East Kyoto . Save on Google Maps .

Get a feel of Old Japan at the historic streets of Sanneizaka & Nineizaka. Walk through the stone paved streets lined the whole way with traditional wooden shophouses and landmarks like the Hōkan-ji Temple.

8. Kodaiji Temple

Kodaiji Temple in Kyoto, Japan

Location : 526 Shimokawaracho, Higashiyama Ward, East Kyoto . Save on Google Maps .

You’ll find the Kodaiji Temple temple near the northern end of Nineizaka Street. This Buddhist temple is famous for its stunning Zen gardens and special illumination shows in autumn and spring.

9. Yasaka Shrine & Gion District

Location : 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, East Kyoto . Save on Google Maps .

From Kodaiji Temple, you can walk farther north and explore Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district. One of the main places to visit here is the Yasaka Shrine, home to the most famous festival in Japan, the Gion Matsuri. Visit during the evening to see hundreds of lanterns lit up at the dance stage fronting the main hall.

10. Nijo Castle

Location : 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Central Kyoto . Save on Google Maps .

Nijo Castle is another interesting place to go in Kyoto aside from its famed temples and shrines. This castle features massive stone walls surrounded by a wide moat, heavy gates, and a richly decorated palace.

Nijo Castle and Ninomaru Palace Admission Ticket

11. Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Tower in Kyoto, Japan

Location : 721-1 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward . Save on Google Maps .

Get a breathtaking view overlooking Kyoto from the Kyoto Tower, the tallest structure in the city. It’s conveniently located beside Kyoto Station.

12. Sushi no Musashi

Location : Atsy Road, Kyoto Station (near the Shinkansen Hachijo entrance on the southern side of the station), Central Kyoto . Save on Google Maps .

If you’ve always wanted to try a conveyor belt sushi restaurant (kaiten-sushi), check out Sushi no Musashi, which has three branches in Kyoto including one right inside the Kyoto Station complex.

13. Ramen Sen no Kaze

Location : 580 Nakanocho, Nakagyo Ward, Central Kyoto . Save on Google Maps .

One of the best ramen I’ve had in Japan! Ramen Sen no Kaze is a must-try in Kyoto. The queue was long when I went but it was worth the wait.

14. Teramachi Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcade

Location : Central Kyoto . Save on Google Maps .

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Kyoto that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Kyoto

Kyoto tourist spots, things to do in Kyoto, where to go in Kyoto & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Kyoto

Click below & search recommended Kyoto hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Agoda Booking.com

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Kyoto Essentials & Top Discounts

Japan mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

Travel with ease & confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:

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JR Kansai WIDE Area Pass (5 Days)

Unlimited JR rides in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Himeji, Kobe & more

ICOCA IC Card

Kyoto hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus pass, jr pass for whole japan.

Popular discounts and tours booked by other travelers:

Japan Trail and Shinkansen Tickets

Kimono Rental in Kyoto with Optional Photoshoot

Bus Transfers between Osaka or Kyoto and Kansai International Airport (KIX)

One Day Kimono Rental

JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass (5 Days)

Sagano Romantic Train Ticket (Kyoto Station Pick Up)

Kyoto Sagano Sightseeing Carriage Tour

Asia 4G LTE WIFI Hotspot (Manila Airport Pick Up)

Kyoto JR Car Rental (1, 2, 3, or 4 Days)

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March 16, 2020 at 6:31 pm

Nice places i wanna check there. Thanks ;)

April 24, 2020 at 4:37 pm

There are three things I want to do in Japan: 1. Visit the temples 2. Eat Ramen and Sushi 3. Visit the Kyoto Tower And adding Arashiyama Bamboo Forest on my list must be fun. Thanks for this!

August 7, 2021 at 12:06 am

Seems like covid isn’t going away the earliest we want, but I’m planning our Japan trip as early as now 😁 Thanks for the ideas and I got inspired by how you presented Kyoto. This is perfect because we’re planning to enter through Osaka and a quick trip to Kyoto will be included in the itinerary. Thanks, Marcos!

• Destinations

17 Best Places to Visit in Kyoto

Best Kyoto Tourist Attractions including New Spots and Classic Locations

When it comes to tourism, Kyoto is always among the most visited cities, not only in Japan but also in the entire world. Historic locations that are beautifully preserved and are photogenic such as the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizudera Temple, and Kinkakuji Temple are always among the top spots in “favorite tourist spot” rankings.

Not only historically important locations but there are also many popular cultural and natural spots that are equally popular. This makes Kyoto a unique city where you can experience the many expressions that Japan can offer to foreign visitors. However, having so many fascinating tourist spots can make it difficult for one to decide where to visit.

In this article, I would like to share with you our countdown list of the 17 best places to visit in Kyoto. In this list, I will introduce to you not only popular spots but also some lesser-known (but equally interesting) spots that you should definitely consider when you come to visit Kyoto. I hope this article becomes a good reference for those planning on spending a few days in this culturally and historically rich city.

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

Explore Kyoto with a local guide to learn about its rich history and culture, and discover its hidden charms! Magical Trip provides a wide range of small group tours in popular tourist areas in Kyoto such as Gion, Fushimi Inari and Arashiyama. Food, history, cultural experience, etc, find a perfect guided tour depending on your interests and make your travel in Kyoto unforgettable! Click the link below to find available guided tours in Kyoto for your trip.

▶Book your best tours with local guides in Kyoto!

17. Kyoto Station

The first place I’d like to recommend is right there in Kyoto Station (京都駅) . Being one of Japan’s largest train stations, Kyoto Station isn’t just a transportation hub; it’s an architectural marvel and a popular destination in itself.

Beyond facilitating travel, it houses a plethora of shops, restaurants, and attractions. The station’s contemporary design contrasts with Kyoto’s historic image, featuring vast glass expanses and a skyway offering panoramic city views. The terraced roof becomes a gathering point for both locals and travelers, especially during evening hours when it’s beautifully illuminated.

Its location, convenience, and vibrant atmosphere make Kyoto Station a favorite hangout spot, providing a mix of modernity amidst the city’s ancient backdrop.

▶ Kyoto Station official website: https://www.kyoto-station-building.co.jp/lp/english/

16. Ine no Funaya

Next on our list is a small town located about 130 km away from Kyoto city. Ine no Funaya (伊根の舟屋) is a small village located in Ine town in the northmost part of Kyoto prefecture. The village stretches approximately 5 km along Ine Bay facing the sea of Japan and you can see a unique scenery with over 200 rustic boathouses floating on the bay.

Visitors can stay overnight at the village since some of these boathouses serve as guest houses. Some of these boathouses even organize boat tours around the village so that you can have a taste of what it is like to live in this fascinating and unique village.

Check out more about Ine no Funaya in the following article!

▶Ine no Funaya: Kyoto’s Hidden “The Venice of Japan”

15. Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

This next place is for those who love animals. Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama (嵐山モンキーパーク) is a place located in Arashiyama mountain, north-west of central Kyoto.

This mountain itself is a popular hiking mountain, and the monkey park is located mid-mountain after hiking uphill for about ten minutes. Not only will over 100 monkeys welcome your visit, but you will also have access to a nice view of the city.

Check out more about Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama from the following article!

▶Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, Kyoto

14. Kamogawa River

During spring, there are parts of the Kamogawa river that will display incredibly beautiful cherry blossoms. And during summer, many restaurants that face the river will open and enlarge the terrace areas where you can dine and drink while enjoying the river views.

Check out more about Kamogawa River from the following article!

▶Kamogawa River: 5 Nice Viewing Restaurants and Cafes on Kamogawa River

13. Rurikoin Temple

Now that you know where to visit during spring and summer, the next place on this list is best visited during autumn. Rurikoin Temple (瑠璃光院) is a beautiful and peaceful temple located in northern Kyoto near Mt Hiei.

The large temple complex is surrounded by beautiful nature and it is open to the public only twice a year; in spring and autumn. The expression that nature shows in this place change dramatically depending on which season you visit, making it a “must-visit” location in Kyoto. You’ll want to visit this place multiple times after your first visit.

Check out more about Rurikoin Temple in the following article!

▶Rurikoin Temple Kyoto: Picturesque Temple with Maple Leaves

12. Kyoto Imperial Palace

Nowadays you can visit this place free of charge, almost any time of the year. You can see for yourself where the Japanese emperor used to live and held official ceremonies. Many of the buildings here are valuable not only because of their historic value but also because of the unique architectural techniques used to build them.

▶ Kyoto Imperial Palace official website: https://sankan.kunaicho.go.jp/english/index.html

11. Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka

Both these slopes were created at the beginning of the 9th century and their scenery has been beautifully preserved. You can find many shops, restaurants, and cafes on your way heading to Kiyomizudera Temple. It is definitely one of the most photogenic streets in the country.

Check out more about Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka in the following article!

▶Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka: Unspoiled Historical Alleys in Kyoto

10. Kyoto Tower

Contrasting the traditional temples and shrines, this modern beacon is a symbol of Kyoto’s blend of the old with the new. Located just opposite Kyoto Station, it’s a popular spot for travelers to get their bearings with its observation deck.

Beneath the tower is Kyoto Tower Sando , a vibrant commercial facility boasting an array of shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences. Its central location and the blend of shopping, dining, and breathtaking views make Kyoto Tower a favored hangout for both locals and visitors.

▶ Kyoto Tower official website: https://www.kyoto-tower.jp/en/

▶ Kyoto Tower Sando official website: https://www.kyoto-tower-sando.jp/

9. Nijo Castle

This is a place where several historically important things happened such as the Taiseihoukan (Restoration of Imperial Rule). Even if you’re not a history enthusiast, you can also enjoy the beautiful Japanese garden as well as the unique architectural structures within the vicinity.

▶ Nijo Castle official website: https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/?lang=en

8. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Next on this list is one of the most recognizable spots in all Kyoto. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (嵐山竹林) is a path located in the Arashiyama-Sagano area, the beautiful outskirt of Kyoto city. It is right between Tenryuji Temple and Okouchi Sanso Garden, both of which are also popular tourist attractions.

The bamboo in this forest is somewhere between 5 to 10 m high, though some of them can reach up to 20 m in height. The grove has approx 200 m long walking paths cutting through the refreshing forest where visitors can enjoy a pleasant walk while listening to the sound of the wing running through the bamboo leaves.

Check out more about Arashiyama Bamboo Grove from the following article!

▶Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Join the “Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo forest & Garden Half-Day Walking Tour” and experience the Arashiyama area in depth with a local English-speaking guide! See the best of Arashiyama, including UNESCO World Heritage temples, famous bamboo forests, traditional villas, and picturesque Zen gardens, through hidden routes often overlooked by tourists. The tour also includes an authentic Shojin cuisine lunch served at a restaurant located within the temple grounds. Check the following link for more information about the tour!

7. Kyoto Gion

It is a very popular area for tourists, mostly because here, you can experience pretty much everything that a tourist expects when coming to Kyoto. There’s the Shinto Shrine, the Kamogawa river with the sakura trees, the old Japanese street atmosphere, and most of all, being able to see a real-life Geisha.

Check out more about Gion in the following article!

▶Gion: Traditional Geisha District in Kyoto

Join a “Dinner with Maiko in a Traditional Kyoto Style Restaurant Tour” and embark on a journey into the world of Geisha/Maiko in Gion area with a local English-speaking guide! Make your visit to Kyoto unforgettable with an exclusive full course dinner with a company of Maiko in a restaurant in a century-old Machiya building. The tour offers a wonderful opportunity to watch Maiko’s dance performance, play games and take photos with her. For more information about the tour, please check the following link!

6. Sanjusangendo Temple

Access is really convenient since it is located just 10 minutes by bus from Kyoto station, or 15 minutes by foot.

Check out more about Sanjusangendo Temple in the following article!

▶Sanjusangendo: Kyoto’s Buddhist Temple with 1,001 Golden Statues

5. Nintendo KYOTO

Nintendo is set to launch Nintendo KYOTO on October 17, 2023, marking its third official store in Japan after Nintendo TOKYO and Nintendo OSAKA.

Located in the new “T8” specialty zone of Kyoto Takashimaya S.C., this store reinforces Nintendo’s presence in major Japanese cities. These outlets are more than just retail spaces; they’re experiential hubs where visitors can buy gaming products and partake in events, offering a comprehensive Nintendo experience.

In essence, Nintendo KYOTO exemplifies the brand’s commitment to blending commerce with immersive gaming encounters.

4. Kiyomizudera Temple

One of the attractive points about this temple is the surrounding trees that change expression depending on the season go choose to visit. Not only will you see a difference between seasons, but also, you can visit here during the nighttime when the temple is illuminated.

Check out more about Kiyomizudera Temple in the following article!

▶Kyoto Kiyomizudera Temple: When is the Best Time to Visit?

3. Yasaka Pagoda

Located in the vicinity of the previously mentioned Kiyomizudera Temple, is the Yasaka Pagoda (八坂の塔) . This pagoda is so famous, that many people actually relate it to the image of Kyoto’s scenery.

This pagoda is part of Hokanji Temple (法観寺) and was built in the late 6th century. Visitors can enter the pagoda up to the 2nd floor. Similarly to Kiyomizudera Temple, this is another place you’ll want to visit twice (once during the daytime and once again during the nighttime). The illuminated tower at night along with the traditional Japanese scenery of the streets make the perfect photo spot.

Check out more about Yasaka Pagoda from the following article!

▶Yasaka Pagoda: the Best Photo Spot in Higashiyama

2. Fushimi Inari Shrine

The shrine is famous for the Senbon Torii which is formed with over 5,000 red torii gates, creating a tunnel of Torii gates. It became popular due to the appearance of this place in movies and TV.

Check out more about Fushimi Inari Shrine from the following article!

▶Fushimi Inari Taisha: Kyoto’s Most Visited Shrine

Most tourists come to see the tunnel of red torii gates, but what many don’t know is that there is a hidden hiking trail that will take you away from the crowds and into a quiet and peaceful walk amidst the trees and bamboo forest. The “Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour” is perfect for those who enjoy discovering hidden sites and appreciate tranquility. On this small group tour, you can enjoy hiking on a secret path to the shrine and immerse into the serene nature with a local guide. Check the following link for more information about the tour!

1. Kinkakuji Temple

And lastly, on our countdown list of the best places to visit in Kyoto is Kinkakuji Temple (金閣寺) . Along with the previously mentioned Fushimi Inari Shrine, this Buddhist Temple is another highly popular tourist spot for foreign visitors. It is located north-west of central Kyoto and it is one of 17 locations of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto which are designated as World Heritage Sites.

The completely golden exterior is so impressive and you can enjoy the contrast with the surrounding nature that changes colors depending on the season you come to visit.

Check out more about Kinkakuji Temple from the following article!

▶Kinkakuji Temple: Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion

▽Check out the best places to visit in other popular areas in Japan!▽

So, what did you think about this article? I hope it helped give you some new ideas for places to visit when you go to Kyoto. If you enjoyed this article and want to read more about Kyoto, check out our other pieces from the links below.

▽Related Articles ▽

▼Editors’ Picks▼

Born and raised in Costa Rica, I started living in Tokyo from college. I love traveling within Japan & around the world. Since I wasn’t born in Japan, I know the cultural impact that you can get when visiting Japan for the first time and what you might be worried about before your trip. And I’ve lived long enough to somewhat understand the nuances of the Japanese culture that make this country such an attractive place to visit. Hopefully I can provide to you both the information you’re looking for and the information you didn’t know you needed to know.

• Things to Do

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Visit Japan’s most charming city – A 2 day itinerary for Kyoto.

This post contains affiliate links. If you book something through these links I get a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can read more about my disclosure and affiliate policy   here .

Kyoto used to be Japan’s capital for over 1000 years and has always charmed. In fact, so much so that it was taken off the list as a potential target of the atomic bomb in favor of Hiroshima (remember Oppenheimer?!). A stroke of luck for Kyoto as it has retained much of its traditional charm and historic buildings until today. 

In addition, the city is small at least by Japanese standards, and pretty walkable for the most part. Add to this countless temples and shrines, a lively food scene, proximity to the best matcha in the world, and so much more – it doesn’t surprise that many consider Kyoto a stunner. You can stay a day, a week, or a month, chances are you won’t get bored – Kyoto makes it easy to feel right at home. 

Admittedly most visitors won’t stay that long but you should at least plan a 2-day itinerary for Kyoto. Here are some tips for your trip and what to see and do during your stay. 

My personal 2-day itinerary in Kyoto

Table of Contents:

What to see in Kyoto

The best hotels in kyoto, eating in kyoto, how to get to kyoto & how to get around.

Gion is one of the old parts of town and is famouly known as Kyoto’s geisha district. Traditional wooden houses, teahouses, and restaurants mark the area. Gion’s most famous street is Hanami-koji where Gion Corner, a theatre, is located where even tourists can learn more about geishas and their art. 

Only recently has the government cracked down on Gion or rather misbehaving tourists as geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas) were being harassed. It should go without saying, but if you see one do not chase, touch or take unsolicited pictures. 

Instead – enjoy the unique atmosphere and go for a stroll!

My favorite was Shirakawa Lane, a beautiful alley by a little stream. There are some lovely and very expensive restaurants and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) on the other side. It is as picturesque as it gets. Take your time for a picture on Tatsumi Bridge and make an offering at the little Tatsumi-jinja Shrine.

And if you love cats, go to Black Cat Coffee. It was here that I learned, to my utter delight, that black cats are considered good luck in Japan. 

I recommend booking a walking tour to learn more about the geishas, the local traditions, and the history of the area. 

Higashiyama District

The Higashiyama District is part of Gion and is known for traditional shops and cute, well-preserved streets. Probably one of the most iconic alleys in Kyoto is the Sannen-Zaka Path offering a perfect view over the Yasaka Pagoda. That is if your view isn’t obstructed by countless other tourists. Honestly, once the sun is up this little picturesque road is not so picturesque anymore. I still recommend you go see it because it is that popular for a reason. 

If you only have time for a 1-day Kyoto itinerary book a Gion night walk. You will definitely walk through and maybe even get the chance for a somewhat unobstructed picture. 

Alternatively, get up very early. And by very early I mean before sunrise. I arrived just in time for sunrise and I was not the only one. That said, when coming up from the Ninen Zaka Path with the beautiful Starbucks (unfortunately still closed for a few hours) turn left not right. Just walk a few meters up the road and your chances have increased by a lot to take a nice shot albeit not perfect. 

After, walk down the road to get closer to the actual pagoda and take some more pictures. With spots like these, I like to be really courteous with other photographers. I always hope people or karma will return the favor. 

Note that while taking pictures of the pagoda is definitely okay, there are many signs throughout that photography is not permitted. Admittedly even I discovered some signs too late. Make sure you are not doing anything illegal and remain respectful especially when people’s private properties and businesses are concerned. 

Temples and shrines

If you enjoy visiting temples and shrines there are 1600 temples and 400 shrines in town – enough to fill a 5-day Kyoto itinerary. There is Kiyomizudera , one of the most beloved Buddhist temples in the country, and the Jishu Shrine. One of the most prominent is the Yasaka Shrine and the beautiful Maruyama Park behind as well as the Kodaiji Temple close by. I also liked the Yasui Kompiragū Shrine which you can climb through to make a wish and for good luck. 

If you are interested in history and/or religion I recommend getting a very good guidebook or booking a walking tour as I did. This way you will see a few great temples, and viewpoints, and learn more about Kyoto and its history. 

Fushimi Inari Shrine

One of the most famous or at least most photographed shrines is the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its countless red torii gates. There are apparently thousands of them. Inari is the Shinto god of rice often represented by foxes that are considered his messenger. With that, it doesn’t surprise that you will see plenty of fox statues around. As usual, I was more excited to run into a very real black cat. 

The torii gates are built over various trails that lead through the woods of Mount Inari. They were built from donations either from individuals or companies and each gate shows their name. A cynic may call it advertising. 

If you want to hike all the way up the mountain it will take about 2-3 hours though most visitors seem to come just for an Instagram picture or two. I will admit that I was one of them. Still, you are well advised to come very early in the morning and to walk a bit further than the average visitor. The further you go the better your chances for a decent picture. I realized I wasn’t going to set up my tripod and eventually just handed my phone to an eager Chinese guy who seemed to be taking nice enough pictures of his mother. 

From Kyoto, there are various buses and trains to Inari. The easiest is to take the Nara JR line to Inari Station and you will arrive right by the shrine. The shrine is free to visit. 

Nikishi market

Nikishi market is known as the Kitchen of Kyoto. Since it is a) centrally located and b) covered, you will probably come across it at one point or another. The atmosphere is unlike that at Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo though what is on offer is similar. That said, it has a 400-year-old history. 

I ended up walking through a few times but it usually was too busy for my liking. At one stand I bought a Taiyaki with sakura (a sweet fish-shaped pastry with cherry blossom filling). In addition, I splurged on a small punnet of white strawberries which were absolutely delicious. But you can get seafood, wagyu, wagyu with seafood on top, and anything in between. There are also some nice stories to browse delicacies to take home. I liked the dog cookies from a cute vending machine that I bought as a souvenir. 

Food tour in Kyoto

This time I didn’t do a food tour in Kyoto, mainly because I felt the city and Nikishi market seemed manageable enough on my own. I was right but in hindsight, I think it would have been nice to get a better insight into some of the local specialities and their history. 

Arigato Travel offers a few food tours in Kyoto . If you are a market lover go for the Nikishi market tour . I think having someone explain all the wares and help you with ordering will be such an advantage to make the market more fun.

Next time I am in Kyoto I plan to do their matcha tour that goes to Uji Town, the home of the best matcha in the world. Yum! They also have a Pontocho and Gion tour as well as one to a sake brewery and a Hanami tour during cherry blossom season.  

If you have at least time for a 3-day Kyoto itinerary you should consider a day trip to Nara. This little place south of Kyoto and east of Osaka is known for its local, free-roaming deer population. Obviously, there are shrines as well but to be honest, most people seem to come for the deer. Or maybe the Motchisuki, the pounding of mochi dough at Nakatanidou, one of the most famous mochi bakeries in Japan. 

Definitely take your time to walk around, play with the deer, take pictures, and eat mochi. Nara is a beautiful destination for a day trip from Kyoto . 

Book a Nara Tour from Kyoto

I stayed at node, a Member of Design Hotels and easiest one of the coolest hotels in Kyoto. I opted for a slightly larger double room that was still affordable. It was the perfect size for a single traveler with a very large suitcase. They also have a nice bar/restaurant downstairs though I only used it for my welcome wine. 

While I liked node overall, the location wasn’t ideal. When I go back I would choose a Gion Kyoto hotel or at least something closer to the Kamo River and the city center. The next subway station was less than a 10-minute walk from node. But since there are so few lines, I ended up walking A LOT and taking more taxis than usual. 

That said, the closer you get to Gion the more expensive hotels get. In an ideal world, I would stay at Shiraume Ryokan or the Park Hyatt . Maybe in the next life. No, seriously I would check out the Kyoto Gion U-BELL Hotel or the Glansit Kyoto Kawaramachi if you don’t mind a capsule hotel. 

Eating in Kyoto became a bit of a mission much like anywhere else in Japan. I didn’t want to spend a fortune or deal with the crazy Japanese booking systems nor did I want to queue for hours. With that, I ignored the iconic restaurants in Pontocho, considered the street with the most must-try restaurants in Kyoto, or hip places like Hikiniku to Come . 

Instead, I often found myself googling “Kyoto restaurant near me” and I have to say the system served me well. In addition, I stuck to my early bird dining times to avoid queues. While this usually meant lunch at 11 am and dinner at 5 pm it worked well to avoid waiting times. 

My favorite was probably Handmade Udon & Soba Shōraku not far from my hotel. Both my udon and the tempura were absolutely delicious and it was inexpensive. I also felt so welcome despite being the only foreigner.  In fact, the waitress seemed genuinely excited that I had somehow managed to find their little restaurant. 

A similar lucky find was Coppie , a modern Japanese restaurant with a reasonably priced omakase menu and natural wines. I arrived for a very early dinner and got seated at the kitchen counter. The menu is only in Japanese so I used the Naver Papago app for a bit of “help”. I quickly decided to not order a la carte and went for the set menu minus the whale, one of the words my app detected correctly. It was delicious and both the staff as well as the other patrons were so welcoming and kind. Honestly, I have rarely felt that welcome when eating alone. 

I also went to the main branch of Honke Owariya , allegedly the oldest soba noodle restaurant in Japan. The setting in an old wooden house was beautiful and eating soba noodles the traditional way was an interesting and very delicious experience. 

Back to the future was my meal at Kaiten Sushi Ginza Onodera , a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant. It was inexpensive and honestly, I felt like a kid in a candy store. You order via tablet, and whoosh – your sushi arrives on the belt in front of you in what feels like lightspeed. 

The one Kyoto foodie guide recommendation I did follow was to have matcha tiramisu at MACCHA House . While I didn’t love the setting and was not able to appreciate pure matcha tea yet, the tiramisu was lovely and probably helped on my way to becoming a matcha lover. 

Kyoto doesn’t have its own airport so you either have to fly to Osaka or Tokyo. If you are coming from overseas you would arrive either at Tokyo Haneda or Narita or at Osaka Kansai . For a domestic flight, you can also transfer via Osaka Itami which is now considered the domestic airport. 

From both cities, it is very easy to take the Shinkansen to Kyoto though. Heading from Tokyo to Kyoto, you can use the Tokaido Shinkansen which will take about 2 hours. If you are coming from Osaka to Kyoto it is less than 30 minutes with the Tokaido-Sanyo Line. The Hankyu-Kyoto Line takes a little longer but might be a good option if you don’t have a Japan Rail Pass as it is a private railway company. 

For a very scenic ride, you can also use the Aoniyoshi train from Osaka-Namba to Kyoto. It only costs a little more and is a truly wonderful experience. I took it on my day trip to Nara as it is considered a tourist train though nobody will mind if you simply use it as a mode of transport. 

Getting around Kyoto is unfortunately not the easiest as the public transport options are somewhat limited compared to other Japanese cities. There are 2 subway lines and a few local railway lines as well as buses. However, I quickly realized that didn’t help me, staying at node which was a few blocks west of the Karasuma Line. 

While the main shopping area of Kyoto is not huge it can feel quite far if you are walking. Also, connections to Gion and the Higashiyama District are limited so I found myself taking a lot of taxis and Uber in Kyoto. I simply didn’t feel like a 30-minute walk only to go for a walk. Kyoto taxi prices were reasonable but of course more than public transport. 

A good alternative would be a bicycle rental when the weather is nice. You can even rent e-bikes and there are many designated bike lanes as well as parking in Kyoto.

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7 Travel Destinations With Plummeting Prices This Fall

According to a new report from Washington State University’s Carson College of Business , 96% of Americans expect inflation to influence an aspect of their future travel plans, with 47% of the respondents declaring that costs would significantly impact their choice of travel destination.

If you looked into planning a trip over the summer, you may have noticed that some locations had exorbitant costs. Luckily, many travel destinations have plummeting prices this fall as the busy season ends.

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What are seven popular and expensive travel destinations that are costly in the summer but have price drops in the fall?

You can also check out these fall travel deals before they’re gone .

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

“The cooler weather makes it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and boating,” said David Ciccarelli, CEO of Lake.com , a vacation rental platform. The town also hosts the Lake of the Ozarks Fall Harbor Hop, a popular event for visitors looking for a festival atmosphere.

Ciccarelli shared that visiting in the fall can result in savings of up to 40%, with rooms available for as low as $100 per night.

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Lake Champlain, Vermont

According to travel experts, Lake Champlain is the quintessential New England fall destination. Ciccarelli said the AppleFest in South Hero, which celebrates the region’s apple harvest and offers cider tastings, apple picking and more, is a must-see activity.

Ciccarelli noted that lodging costs could decrease by 25%, with charming inns and hotels offering rates around $150 per night.

Consider This: 5 Budget-Friendly Reasons To Take a Fall Vacation

Muskoka, Ontario

Ciccarelli said Muskoka’s fall colors are legendary, making it a top destination for leaf-peepers. The Bala Cranberry Festival in mid-October is a must-see, offering visitors a taste of the local harvest and plenty of festive activities.

You also never know which celebrities you’ll run into, as David Beckham was spotted there with his family this summer.

Ciccarelli shared that prices fall by 30% compared to the summer, with luxury lakeside accommodations averaging $180 per night.

“The Big Apple is filled with tourists during the summer, which is traditionally accompanied by an increase in room and activity prices during this season,” said Erika Pacini, a travel expert and the head of marketing at Outdoorplay .

You can still experience the same sights that New York has to offer in the fall while saving money on accommodations if you visit off-season.

Pacini shared that a week-long vacation can set one back approximately $2,500 to $4,000 in the summer, while the prices in the fall could drop to between $1,800 and $2,500 for the same week. These prices can differ based on people’s travel styles, preferences and specific activities.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini offers a marvelous display of sunsets, vibrant nightlife, breathtaking views and natural wonders. According to Pacini, a week there may cost between $2,500 and $4,000 in the summer as tourists flock to this ideal vacation spot.

Pacini said that even as the number of visitors declines, the pleasant weather continues, and the costs go lower to an average of $1,500 to $2,500 weekly.

Find Out: 6 Things To Buy Now If You’re Planning on Traveling This Fall

Maui, Hawaii

Pacini shared that many people visit Maui for its stunning beaches, verdant jungle and surfing spots when children are out of school in the summer. However, you can land a deal if you visit this location during the off-peak season in the fall.

The climate remains warm so you can take advantage of beach time without the humidity of the summer.

You can expect to part with approximately $3,000 to $4,500 for a week of summer vacation. With fewer tourist visitors, fall becomes a less expensive season to visit with prices around $2,000 to $3,000 expected for the same experience.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is popular in the summer for its temples, traditional Japanese gardens and culture-rich areas. However, Pacini said that Mother Nature’s vibrant fall colors bring in another hidden beauty of Kyoto.

A week could set you back about $2,000 to $3,000 in the summer, while the cost of travel dips a little to about $1,500 and $2,200 in the fall.

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Osaka gears up for 2025 World Expo with memories of hosting a half-century ago

Visitors to Tokyo and Kyoto might not realize it, but Osaka — one of Japan’s biggest and oldest cities, known more as a business hub than a tourist destination -- is gearing up to host next year’s World Exposition.

The city has been plastered with the Expo’s red-and-blue “Myaku-Myaku” mascot for months and is abuzz with preparations. For many here, the excitement is mixed with nostalgia for the last World Expo hosted by Japan, back in 1970.

There are doubters, especially outside Osaka. Construction costs are turning out to be exponentially higher than expected. Preparations have been marred by political and business infighting. And many Japanese, jaded after Tokyo’s difficult experience hosting the Olympics during the COVID pandemic, question whether the idea of a World Expo is still relevant.

But in Osaka, many older residents say such events are more necessary than ever.

Many retain vivid memories of the 1970 Expo. They remember schoolchildren attending multiple times, particularly those from the Osaka area. There were long lines to see the moon rocks on view at the U.S. pavilion; prototypes of electric cars; displays featuring the first ethernet cables (LAN); and the introduction of Western foods like yogurt and baguettes.

It was a time when traveling abroad was still a dream for most, and Expo ’70 was a rare chance for ordinary Japanese to hear live performances by bands from around the world, and visit a huge array of pavilions representing various nations and interests.

Mostly, though, the enduring impact was the chance for personal interactions with international pavilions and visitors.

“My experience as an interpreter at World Expo ’70 was transformative,” says Takahiro Shinyo, who went on to join the Japanese foreign service, serve as a Japanese ambassador to Germany, and is now a visiting professor at Kwansei Gakuin University, just outside Osaka.

“It opened my eyes to the power of international cooperation and the potential of human ingenuity,” he says.

And while a lot has changed since 1970, he says World Expos remain just as relevant today.

“The value of direct interpersonal contact that World Expos facilitate cannot be replicated online,” he says. “The face-to-face interactions, the exchange of ideas, and the shared experiences that take place at these events contribute to a deeper understanding and appreciation of our global community.”

As in 1970, this World Expo is being staged in Osaka just a few years after the Olympics were held in Tokyo. But while the 1964 Olympics were an enormously successful and popular event at the time, the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, held during the pandemic, were considered a disappointment to many Japanese.

World Expos happen every five years, and last up to six months. The most recent, in 2020, was in Dubai.

The upcoming Expo in Osaka is scheduled for April 13-Oct. 13, 2025, with the theme “Designing the Future of Our Lives.” Organizers anticipate 28.2 million visitors, over 3 million of them from other countries. Nearly 5 million tickets have already been sold.

The Expo will be held on an island built off the coast of western Osaka using the same technology as at nearby Kansai International Airport, which floats in Osaka Bay. The fair promises multiple prototypes of flying cars, and spokeswoman Sachiko Yoshimura said organizers hope visitors could even take a flying car from the airport to the Expo.

That said, organizers say their emphasis is not on cutting-edge technology as much as international cooperation.

“This Expo is not just a showcase of industry. It’s about having all the nations come together and unite as one,” said Yoshimura, in a glassed-in office near the top of a skyscraper overlooking the site of the upcoming event.

Although the grounds of World Expo 2025 have begun to open up for limited tours of the construction site, the general public can get a sense of the impact of a World Exposition in Osaka by visiting ExpoCity, the site of the 1970 World Expo. It features an immersive Expo ’70 Pavilion, including the still-intact Steel Pavilion, and galleries of Expo '70 memorabilia like uniforms worn by World Expo “hostesses.”

Visitors to ExpoCity can climb inside the nearby “Taiyo no To” (Tower of the Sun) sculpture, a symbol of Expo '70 and designed by Japanese artist Taro Okamoto. There is also a playground, a lake with paddle boats and, nearby, “Expo Restaurant,” which sells what are billed as the same style meals served at that fair.

Getting there: ExpoCity is a short monorail ride from Itami Airport, in Osaka. Tickets to the 2025 World Exposition range in price from 4,000 yen to 6700 yen, depending on entry days.

Niseko Green Season

15 comments login to comment.

Concerned Citizen Sep. 14 05:18 pm JST

No direct public transport from major hubs like Osaka Station or Shin Osaka Station?

TheDalaiLamasBifocals Sep. 14 06:47 pm JST

Who actually gives a flying fart about these expos.

garypen Sep. 14 06:51 pm JST

Concerned Citizen No direct public transport from major hubs like Osaka Station or Shin Osaka Station?

Right? It's absolutely nuts. Maybe they'll be doing shuttle buses from the Cosmosquare Station on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line or Sakurajima or USJ stations on the JR Yumesaki Line. But, direct rail is the right way to go, like the Osaka Monorail was for Expo 70. (And still is for LaLaPort ExpoCity and the old Expo Park.)

Moonraker Sep. 14 07:12 pm JST

But now that Japanese can travel abroad easily it is not like 1970 and there are enough people coming to Japan for some to complain, all this international exchange is easily achieved. Maybe the problem is that Japan is psychically stuck in 1970.

earsay Sep. 14 07:18 pm JST

Kansai resident here. I don't know one local who's looking forward to this. People just shake their head at the suggestion of going.

I think it's a really dated concept from a time when overseas travel was difficult for most. Now it's so cheap and easy to go to the places that are on show at these expos. It's just way more interesting to travel to those countries.

tora Sep. 14 07:19 pm JST

For the 1970 Expo:

There were long lines to see the moon rocks on view at the U.S. pavilion; prototypes of electric cars; displays featuring the first ethernet cables (LAN); and the introduction of Western foods like yogurt and baguettes.

The 2025 Expo:

There will be ambitious space endeavors such as images from NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, on view at the U.S. pavilion; prototypes of flying cars; displays featuring AI fechnology; and Western foods like yogurt and baguettes.

Very little difference! I think 1970 would have been worrying it. I'll be giving this one a miss.

tora Sep. 14 07:20 pm JST

1970 would have been worth it. Stupid auto correct.

Peter Neil Sep. 14 07:35 pm JST

just a taxpayer subsidy to construction companies, contractors and a jobs program.

memories of 1970? sure, i remember the year well, but i’m an old geezer.

Aoi Azuuri Sep. 14 07:46 pm JST

This local far-rights' self-satisfaction event is also wasting taxes unlimitedly as same as Tokyo 2020, Its preparation using huge materials, resources or workers has even delayed reconstruction of Noto peninsula where quake hit 8 months before.

Organizer prioritize to benefit related corporations than safety, remarkable "wooden ring" has risk of lightning strike, the venue built above final waste disposal site has risk of methane gus explosion, its soft ground has risk of liquefaction when quake hit. But, evacuation plan is unreal as same as domestic nuclear plants.

Besides, many heavy rocks are hanged above the rest area, architect in charge insist it "sun shade". in this connection, its constructor is its architect's father's company.

Public expectation is low, Ticket sale reveal unpopular, Countries where want to participate are decreasing, it will be most un-welcome Expo in history.

Gareth Myles Sep. 14 07:56 pm JST

The article makes a very compelling argument that the concept of an Expo belongs to the 1970s. The world was opening up 50 years ago with international travel still a novelty for most of the population. Anything connected with space travel was simply wondrous, and even the monorail taking you to the Expo was so 21st century. Now we can see everything that happens everywhere in the world without needing more than a few clicks on a phone. There are no mysteries to be revealed by an Expo nor any need for international connections to be made. The passage of time causes some concepts to be outdated. The Expo should have been left to be remembered as its glorious 70s original, not resurrected as another opportunity for milking the taxpayer.

Japantime Sep. 14 08:10 pm JST

This will be the biggest international event for 2025. Most people I know have already booked the advance tickets which are much cheaper.

Blackstar Sep. 14 08:29 pm JST

@Japantime: This will be the biggest international event for 2025. 

Get a grip. No, it won't. It doesn't give me any pleasure to see Japan waste precious public funds, but here we are...

@Moonraker: But now that Japanese can travel abroad easily it is not like 1970 and there are enough people coming to Japan for some to complain, all this international exchange is easily achieved.

Maybe the problem is that Japan is psychically stuck in 1970.

The old farts that are allowed to run the place are anyway. The apathy of younger people towards voting, and the absence of credible younger voices, perpetuates this kind of nonsense.

wanderlust Sep. 14 10:09 pm JST

They have already started on the infrastructure for the Integrated Resort (aka Casino) to be built afterwards. This is a great subsidy for the casino operators and local government.

owzer Sep. 14 11:37 pm JST

This event will have nowhere near the influence that the 1970 expo had. We're too connected for much to be a real surprise. This will be a monumental flop and absolute waste of taxpayer money.

factchecker Sep. 14 11:41 pm JST

ExpoCity is a short monorail ride from Itami Airport, in Osaka

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